In a concerning development, Sierra Leone has reported a staggering 63% increase in Mpox cases within a single week, totaling 384 confirmed cases. This surge accounts for over half of all Mpox cases reported across the African continent during that period. The Africa Centres for Disease Control and Prevention (Africa CDC) has raised alarms, warning of a potential regional health threat if immediate containment measures are not implemented.
Dr. Ngashi Ngongo, Chief of Staff at Africa CDC, highlighted the severity of the situation during a recent briefing. He emphasized that the rapid increase in infections is contributing to a broader resurgence of the virus in parts of West and Central Africa. Sierra Leone had previously declared Mpox a public health emergency in January, but the current spike underscores the need for enhanced response efforts.
One of the critical challenges facing Sierra Leone is the limited capacity of its healthcare infrastructure. With only 60 beds available in Mpox treatment centers and approximately 800 active cases, many infected individuals are forced to isolate at home. This situation hampers effective treatment and containment of the virus.
Funding constraints further exacerbate the crisis. Dr. Ngongo noted that budgetary limitations have hindered efforts in contact tracing and laboratory capacity expansion. He also pointed out that proposed funding cuts by international partners could threaten ongoing containment initiatives.
While Mpox cases in countries like Uganda and Burundi are on a decline, and the Democratic Republic of Congo shows signs of stabilization, the situation in Sierra Leone remains precarious. The Africa CDC urges immediate action, including improved surveillance, increased funding, and public awareness campaigns to curb the spread of the virus.
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