Africa Contends with Monkeypox: WHO Reports 4,232 Cases Globally, Tanzania Unscathed

By Adonis Byemelwa

Amid a global surge in monkeypox infections, Africa remains significantly affected, with 4,232 confirmed cases, accounting for 4.3% of the worldwide tally. The World Health Organization (WHO) revealed these figures yesterday, 19^th August 2024, highlighting the continent’s vulnerability as the disease spreads rapidly across 116 countries.

While North and South America bear the brunt with over 62,000 cases, Africa's situation is a stark reminder of the challenges in managing emerging health crises. As the numbers climb globally, the urgency to reinforce health measures across African nations becomes ever more critical.

Globally, 99,176 cases have been confirmed in 116 countries, with North and South America leading with 62,904 cases, which accounts for 63.4% of the total.

Europe comes second with 27,529 cases, comprising 27.8% of the global total. So far, 208 people have lost their lives to the disease, reflecting a mortality rate of 0.2%.

The announcement was made today, Monday, August 19, 2024, by Tanzania's Health Minister, Jenista Mhagama, who assured that Tanzania has not yet reported any cases of the disease. In her statement, which quoted WHO data, Health Minister Jenista confirmed that the disease has claimed 208 lives worldwide, equivalent to 0.2% of those infected.

"To date, no case of Mpox has been confirmed in the country. The Ministry of Health is taking several measures to prevent the entry of this disease into Tanzania," the Minister stated in her report.

Despite the absence of reported cases in Tanzania, Minister Jenista outlined the ongoing preventive measures being taken by the ministry to keep the disease at bay. These include enhancing screening procedures for travelers at border health services in ports, land borders, and airports to detect individuals showing signs or symptoms of the disease and taking appropriate action.

The measures also involve monitoring individuals within communities who may show signs or symptoms of the disease to provide prompt care and reduce the risk of transmission if the disease enters the country.

"In collaboration with regional health teams, local authorities, community health providers, and health service centers, we have strengthened readiness in health facilities, diagnostic laboratories, access to medication, and protective equipment to ensure we can offer appropriate care if the disease emerges in Tanzania.

"We are also conducting public awareness campaigns through various channels, including television, radio, and social media, to inform the public about the progress of the disease and the necessary precautions to take," the statement read.

The Ministry of Health has urged individuals who notice symptoms such as fever, rashes, fatigue, and swollen lymph nodes to seek medical attention immediately for examination.

Another crucial recommendation is to report individuals exhibiting signs or symptoms of monkeypox by calling the free emergency number 199 for assistance.

"Avoid physical contact, such as shaking hands, hugging, or engaging in sexual activity with someone showing signs of Mpox, and refrain from touching fluids from an infected person. Wash hands frequently with running water and soap or use hand sanitizers.

"In this regard, I urge public places, households, and various institutions, including schools, colleges, and health service centers, to ensure that handwashing facilities with running water and soap are readily available to facilitate regular handwashing," the statement emphasized.

Additional preventive steps include cleaning and disinfecting items an infected person uses and frequently touched surfaces using soap or chlorine-based disinfectants like bleach.

Another critical precaution is to avoid consuming or handling carcasses or animals that might carry the virus. If close contact with someone showing Mpox symptoms is necessary, wearing a mask is crucial for protection.

The rise of such epidemics is often driven by a mix of factors, including deforestation, wildlife trade, and human encroachment into previously untouched habitats. These disruptions to ecosystems increase the risk of zoonotic diseases jumping from animals to humans. As well, globalization and increased travel accelerate the spread, turning local outbreaks into global health crises.

In these situations, pharmaceutical companies and the healthcare industry often benefit from increased demand for vaccines and treatments. However, the true losers are the communities most vulnerable to these diseases—those in regions with limited healthcare access, where the social and economic impacts are severe. The recurring nature of outbreaks underlines the need for stronger global health systems and preventive measures to address future epidemics before they escalate.