Strengthening global health preparedness amid Mpox spread in Africa

The resurgence of Mpox, formerly known as monkeypox, has emerged as a critical public health concern, driven by the more transmissible and virulent clade Ib strain. The outbreak, which has escalated across Central and West Africa, poses significant threats to global health security, primarily due to cross-border transmission and the inadequacies of current public health responses. This commentary examined the epidemiological trends, public health challenges, and gaps in containment efforts, offering insights and recommendations for a more effective global response. Drawing on data from the World Health Organization, this commentary reviews the epidemiological patterns of Mpox cases reported across 19 African nations from January to November 2024. In addition, it evaluates public health responses, including the challenges of vaccine distribution, diagnostic capacity, and healthcare system limitations, and discusses the broader implications for global preparedness. Despite emergency declarations and the mobilization of vaccine resources, efforts remain constrained by logistical barriers, limited vaccine availability, and underdeveloped diagnostic infrastructures. Furthermore, vaccine hesitancy, driven by misinformation and social stigma, continues to undermine containment measures. The current Mpox outbreak highlights substantial gaps in global health preparedness and inequities in access to essential health interventions. This commentary emphasizes the need for globally coordinated and equitable interventions to close these gaps, strengthen surveillance, improve vaccine distribution, and enhance cross-border public health measures. Without urgent action, the risk of further escalation and the global spread of Mpox remains a critical concern.