Unraveling the Global Mpox Crisis: The Role of African Epidemiologists in Containing a Pandemic

The outbreak of monkeypox, now commonly referred to as mpox, has become a significant public health concern globally, particularly impacting regions in Africa. This resurgence has caught the attention of global health organizations and experts worldwide. At the forefront of this battle is epidemiologist Placide Mbala and his dedicated team, who have been instrumental in identifying and containing the virus’s spread. Their work in the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) has shed light on the complexities of mpox transmission and the challenges faced by healthcare systems in low-resource settings. The efforts of Mbala and his colleagues are not only crucial for Africa but also hold valuable lessons for global health preparedness and response strategies.

In the DRC, Mbala and his team identified a concerning cluster of mpox cases among young adults and sex workers, a demographic that had not been previously associated with the virus. This discovery prompted an urgent investigation into the genetic makeup of the virus. Through genomic analysis, they uncovered a new strain of mpox, distinct from the one responsible for the 2022 outbreak. This strain exhibited enhanced human-to-human transmission capabilities, raising alarms about its potential to spread beyond Africa. Indeed, this new variant has been detected in several countries, some of which had never reported mpox cases before, underscoring the virus’s global threat.

Mbala’s leadership and diplomatic approach have been pivotal in coordinating response efforts and engaging with local communities. His ability to navigate complex social dynamics and foster trust among populations at risk has been praised by peers like virologist Jason Kindrachuk. Such community engagement is essential, particularly when dealing with stigmatized groups, as it ensures that interventions are culturally sensitive and effective. Mbala’s mentor, microbiologist Jean-Jacques Muyembe-Tamfum, has played a significant role in enhancing the DRC’s capacity for mpox testing and treatment, further highlighting the importance of mentorship and knowledge transfer in building resilient health systems.

Beyond mpox, Mbala has a track record of responding to other infectious disease outbreaks. He was instrumental in diagnosing and confirming the first cases of Ebola during the DRC’s 2014 outbreak, showcasing his expertise and commitment to combating infectious diseases. His dedication to addressing “scientific amnesia”—the tendency to forget past outbreaks once they are contained—is evident in his proactive approach to public health. Mbala emphasizes the need for continuous vigilance and preparedness to prevent diseases like mpox from re-emerging, even after previous outbreaks have been controlled.

Despite the availability of vaccines and therapeutics in high-income countries, African nations struggled to access these resources until the virus had already spread significantly across the continent. This disparity highlights the persistent inequities in global health resource distribution. Mbala and his team are actively working to understand the virus’s transmission dynamics in the DRC and neighboring countries, focusing on displacement camps and non-sexual contact routes. Their research has documented multiple strains circulating in Kinshasa, raising concerns about the potential for further global dissemination.

Efforts to engage with local communities, particularly those at high risk of contracting mpox, are ongoing. By developing strategies that involve health officials working alongside these communities, Mbala aims to reduce stigma and improve health outcomes. These initiatives not only address immediate public health concerns but also aim to empower communities with the knowledge and tools needed to protect themselves. The findings from these efforts are expected to have practical benefits for the DRC and the broader region, contributing to a more informed and effective public health response.

The recent declaration by the World Health Organization (WHO) of mpox as a global health emergency for the second time underscores the virus’s persistent threat. The surge in cases across East, West, and Central Africa in 2024 prompted this declaration, marking a critical moment in the global response to mpox. This situation report highlights the importance of continuous monitoring and assessment of the mpox situation, emphasizing the need for coordinated international efforts to contain the outbreak.

Data from the Africa Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (Africa CDC) reveals that the continent has reported over 65,000 mpox cases this year, with a significant number of confirmed cases and fatalities. The ongoing outbreak affects 20 African countries, with six nations having moved from active transmission to a controlled stage. However, the threat remains, necessitating sustained efforts to combat the virus. The Africa CDC’s declaration of mpox as a public health emergency of continental security further emphasizes the urgency of the situation.

Mpox, first discovered in laboratory monkeys in 1958, is a rare viral disease primarily transmitted through body fluids, respiratory droplets, and contaminated materials. Symptoms include fever, rash, and swollen lymph nodes. The current outbreak has raised significant concerns and prompted action from global health organizations. It serves as a stark reminder of the importance of disease prevention and control measures, particularly in regions with limited healthcare infrastructure.

The high number of mpox cases and deaths in Africa underscores the need for international cooperation and support. Effective containment of the outbreak will require coordination among affected countries and assistance from global health bodies. Monitoring and proactive measures are essential to prevent the spread of mpox and other infectious diseases. The lessons learned from this outbreak can inform future public health strategies, ensuring better preparedness for similar challenges.

In the face of these challenges, the DRC has achieved a remarkable milestone: a zero fatality rate for new mpox cases. This achievement is a testament to the effectiveness of targeted interventions and the dedication of healthcare workers on the ground. It highlights the potential for success when local knowledge and international support are combined. As the world grapples with the ongoing mpox crisis, the experiences of African epidemiologists like Mbala offer valuable insights into managing infectious disease outbreaks.

Ultimately, the global mpox crisis underscores the need for a unified response to emerging infectious diseases. The work of Mbala and his team exemplifies the critical role of epidemiologists in understanding and controlling disease spread. By addressing the root causes of outbreaks and promoting equitable access to healthcare resources, the global community can better prepare for and respond to future health emergencies. The story of mpox is not just about a virus; it is about resilience, collaboration, and the relentless pursuit of a healthier world.