Africa's top public health authority, the Africa Centres for Disease Control and Prevention (Africa CDC), has declared a 'public health emergency of continental security' due to an mpox outbreak spreading from the Democratic Republic of Congo to neighboring countries.

The public health body said more than 15,000 mpox cases and 461 deaths were reported on the continent this year so far, representing a 160 per cent increase from the same period last year

Africa's top public health body, Africa CDC, declared a 'public health emergency of continental security' due to a widespread mpox outbreak. The outbreak, originating in Congo, has spread to neighboring countries. Africa CDC emphasized the need for quick vaccine distribution as cases surge, with limited doses currently available.

The Africa Centers for Disease Control and Prevention says over 15,000 mpox cases and 461 deaths were reported on the continent in 2024 so far, representing a 160% increase from the same period last year