Mpox Outbreak in 2024: A Call for Early Preparedness and Strategic Response

Mpox is a viral illness caused by the mpox virus, a species of the genus Orthopoxvirus, which is related to smallpox although less severe. It is endemic in West and Central Africa. Three different clades exist: clade 1a, clade 1b and clade 2. In countries with a longer history of mpox, apparent wider population transmission is reported with unclear routes. Mpox, caused by the monkeypox virus, is characterized by symptoms such as fever, intense headache, swelling of lymph nodes, muscle aches, and a distinctive rash. The rash typically begins on the face and spreads to other parts of the body, evolving through several stages before forming scabs and eventually falling off.

The virus spreads primarily through close contact with an infected individual, including direct contact with the rash, scabs, or bodily fluids. It can also be transmitted via respiratory droplets during prolonged face-to-face interaction, making crowded areas and close-knit communities particularly vulnerable. In addition, contact with contaminated objects, such as bedding or clothing, can facilitate the spread of the virus.

Since the beginning of 2022 and as of 28 July 2024, a total of 37,583 cases and 1,451 deaths (case fatality rate [CFR]: 3.9%) of mpox have been reported from 15 African Union Member States (AU MS): Benin, Burundi, Cameroon, Central Africa Republic (CAR), Congo, Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), Egypt, Ghana, Liberia, Morocco, Mozambique, Nigeria, Rwanda, Sudan and South Africa (see table 1). In 2023 alone, 14,957 cases and 739 deaths (CFR: 4.9%) were reported from seven AUMS. This is a 78.5% increase in the number of new cases compared to 2022 [1].

As of the current date, no cases of Mpox have been confirmed in Somalia. However, given the country’s vulnerabilities, including its fragile health infrastructure, porous borders, and high population mobility, Somalia remains at significant risk for an outbreak. The proximity to regions with confirmed cases and the potential for cross-border transmission heightens this risk.

Galool Development Consultancy’s Health Message

Given the fast-spreading nature of Mpox, early action and robust preparedness mechanisms are crucial, especially in countries like Somalia, where the healthcare system is fragmented and lacks adequate resources. The challenges posed by such an outbreak could overwhelm the existing infrastructure, making it difficult to contain the infection and prevent widespread transmission.

At Galool Development Consultancy, we understand the urgent need for a coordinated response to Mpox in Somalia. With our diverse technical expertise in public health, we are ready to collaborate with partners and funders on preparedness and response interventions. Our team is equipped to support the establishment of early warning systems, training of healthcare workers, and the development of community awareness campaigns to mitigate the impact of this outbreak.

We urge our partners and stakeholders to recognize the importance of swift action. By working together, we can enhance the resilience of Somalia’s healthcare system, ensuring that it is better equipped to handle the current Mpox outbreak and future public health emergencies.

Galool Development Consultancy is committed to leading efforts in preparedness and response, ensuring that Somalia is not left behind in the fight against this rapidly spreading infection. We call on all relevant partners to join us in this crucial endeavor.

[1] https://africacdc.org/news-item/mpox-situation-in-africa/