Mbamba Bay Katumbi Street, Plot No. 24
Nyasa, Ruvuma, Tanzania
The Africa Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (Africa CDC) has issued an urgent call to African health ministers to coordinate efforts against the rapidly spreading Mpox outbreak. Since January 2024, over 21,000 cases have been reported across 13 African Union member states, with a case fatality rate of nearly 3%. Africa CDC Director-General Jean Kaseya emphasized that laboratory tests alone are insufficient for diagnosis and urged countries to adopt a holistic approach combining clinical, epidemiological, and laboratory data. The need for improved testing methods and vigilant monitoring is critical to controlling the outbreak and preventing further spread across the continent.
The report highlights the ongoing mpox outbreaks in Indonesia and Thailand. Indonesia has reported 88 cases since 2022, with the majority in Jakarta and West Java, and a low fatality rate. In Thailand, over 800 cases have been identified, mostly of the less severe Clade 2's C.1 subvariant. The Democratic Republic of Congo remains the most severely impacted region, with over 16,000 cases and 581 deaths due to the more dangerous Clade 1b strain. The report emphasizes the need for continued monitoring and international efforts to control the virus's spread
As of 20 August 2024, Côte d'Ivoire has reported 28 confirmed cases of mpox, including one death, in Abidjan. Although authorities describe the situation as not alarming, they are increasing surveillance to prevent further spread. The recent cases are being analyzed to determine if they involve a new, more deadly variant, clade 1b, which emerged in 2023 in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC). The DRC remains the most affected country, with over 16,000 cases and 548 deaths. The World Health Organization (WHO) has declared an international public health emergency due to the resurgence of mpox across Africa. Source: ProMED, via ProMED-EAFR
Tunisia has reported its first case of lumpy skin disease (LSD) in cattle in the Jendouba governorate, near the Algerian border. The disease, which spreads through insects but is not contagious to humans, was confirmed by the Veterinary Research Institute in Tunis. In response, the Tunisian government has implemented strict measures, including isolating the affected farm, treating against insects, and monitoring nearby farms. The Ministry of Agriculture is urging breeders to follow biosecurity protocols and promptly report suspected cases to prevent the disease from spreading further.
The pie chart represents the distribution of Mpox cases in Africa in 2024. It shows that 19.3% of the cases are confirmed (2,745 cases), while the majority, 80.7%, are suspected cases (11,505 cases). This visual emphasizes the need for ongoing investigation and monitoring of suspected cases across the continent.
Five suspected cases of yellow fever have been reported in the Kimputu health zone, Idiofa territory, Kwilu province, in the Democratic Republic of Congo. The cases involve children aged 5 to 7 years, including two boys and three girls, who exhibited symptoms of yellow fever. Samples taken from the children were sent to the Kikwit branch of the Expanded Programme on Immunization (EPI) and will be further analyzed at the National Institute for Biomedical Research (INRB). Local health authorities are on alert to prevent the potential spread of the disease.
On April 7th, World Health Day highlights global health issues and promotes the right to quality healthcare for everyone. Tanzania is committed to this goal by integrating health rights into policies and strengthening its health system. With support from the World Health Organization (WHO), Tanzania is addressing challenges like COVID-19, maternal health, and communicable diseases through a six-year strategic plan. The plan focuses on improving healthcare access and promoting health education. Strategic partnerships and community involvement are crucial to ensuring that all citizens receive quality healthcare, contributing to a healthier nation.
The Africa CDC has issued an urgent alert about the ongoing monkeypox threat, noting a case fatality rate of 2.8% and significant vaccine shortages. Dr. Ahmed Ogwell, Acting Director of Africa CDC, emphasizes the need for vigilance and preventive measures. Key recommendations include avoiding contact with infected individuals, practicing good hygiene, using PPE for healthcare workers, isolating infected persons, and seeking vaccination if available. Our NGO is committed to raising awareness, distributing educational materials, and supporting surveillance efforts in collaboration with health authorities to combat this health concern. Stay informed through reliable sources like the Africa CDC and local health authorities. Your support is vital in protecting our communities from monkeypox.
We are dedicated to supporting the government's strategic plan to eliminate hepatitis by 2030. Our efforts are focused on partnering with the government and NGOs to create awareness and provide essential health services, especially to rural communities. By leveraging the efforts of community health workers, we are actively involved in educating and mobilizing the community to combat hepatitis. Our collaboration aims to enhance public health outcomes and ensure a hepatitis-free future for all.
On this Skin Day 2024, we reaffirm our dedication to improving skin health and supporting global efforts to combat skin diseases. Together, we can create healthier communities and a brighter future for all.
