The World Health Organization (WHO) has reported a total of 6,603 confirmed Mpox cases and 32 deaths across 15 African countries from 01 January to 22 September 2024. In the past week alone, 402 new cases were confirmed with no additional deaths.
The Democratic Republic of Congo recorded the highest number of cases and the highest number of deaths in Africa, at 5,621 and 25 respectively, according to the 38th situation report on the multi-country Mpox outbreak released by the WHO on September 28—Burundi recorded 696 cases and zero deaths, and Nigeria registered 78 cases and no deaths.
In the RDC, deaths are primarily associated with clade Ib MPXV, particularly in South Kivu province. Testing challenges and delays in case confirmation continue to impede outbreak control efforts. Only 37% of suspected cases were tested in 2024 in the RDC, with a positivity rate of approximately 55%.
Burundi has experienced a notable surge in Mpox cases, with 35 of its 49 districts affected since the outbreak began in July 2024. Children under five account for about 30% of confirmed cases in the country.
The WHO noted the urgent need for enhanced surveillance, testing, and contact tracing to curb the spread of Mpox in Africa. It has also outlined a research roadmap to address knowledge gaps and improve response efforts.
As of September 22, Africa has reported 31,427 suspected cases, including 844 deaths (CFR 2.7%). In the last week alone, there were 2,085 new cases and 32 deaths.
Globally, since the beginning of 2024 through August, there have been 106,310 confirmed Mpox cases and 234 deaths across 123 countries.