The Africa Center for Disease Control and Prevention (Africa CDC) has urged for immediate action to combat the rising mpox cases and deaths on the continent.

Despite the recent launch of a continental response plan, Africa recorded 107 new deaths and 3,160 new mpox cases in just one week.

Dr. Jean Kaseya, Director-General of the Africa CDC, described the situation as “unacceptable” and emphasized the need for enhanced cross-border surveillance. “In one week, we lost 107 lives. It’s too much. Africa cannot rely solely on confirmed cases for decision-making and response,” he said.

Kaseya stressed the importance of increased testing and resources to support it, noting that men recorded a 63% positivity rate, while children under 15 had a 41% positivity rate. He also highlighted the need for stronger cross-border surveillance to combat the spread of the virus.

The mpox virus, related to smallpox, causes milder symptoms, but severe cases can lead to lesions on the face, hands, chest, and genitals. The estimated budget for the six-month response plan is almost $600 million, focusing on surveillance, laboratory testing, and community engagement.

Some African Union member states have contributed to the response plan budget, demonstrating ownership and commitment to combating the outbreak. The continent is receiving mpox vaccines, with 250,000 doses already delivered to Congo, but more than three million doses are needed to end the outbreak.

The EU has pledged to donate over 500,000 doses, but the delivery timeline remains uncertain. Since the beginning of the year, Africa CDC has recorded 5,731 confirmed mpox cases and 724 associated deaths.