Ivory Coast’s health authorities have reported a concerning rise in mpox cases, with 28 confirmed infections, including one death, as of Tuesday. This update from the National Public Hygiene Institute (INHP) reflects a significant increase from the six cases reported on August 1. The situation is currently under close scrutiny, with health officials taking proactive measures to manage the outbreak and prevent further spread.
Dr. Daouda Coulibaly from the INHP provided details on the current status of the outbreak. According to Coulibaly, the single fatality and some of the cases were recorded in Abidjan, the country’s economic capital. The INHP is in the process of conducting tests to determine the specific strain of mpox involved in these cases. Despite the rise in numbers, Coulibaly reassured the public that the situation is not yet alarming, describing it as the early stages of a potential epidemic rather than a full-scale outbreak.
Coulibaly emphasized that the current subtype of mpox affecting Ivory Coast is clade 2, which was associated with the previous epidemic in 2022. This subtype is known to be less virulent compared to clade 1b, which has been causing more severe outbreaks in other regions. Clade 1b has emerged in countries such as the Democratic Republic of Congo (DR Congo), Burundi, Kenya, Rwanda, Uganda, and even Sweden. This more dangerous variant has been responsible for a significant number of deaths and has led the World Health Organization (WHO) to declare mpox a global public health emergency last week.
In response to the rising cases, the Ivory Coast health authorities have enhanced their monitoring and containment measures. Coulibaly stated that efforts are focused on breaking the chains of transmission by identifying and isolating those who have been in contact with confirmed cases. This includes rigorous contact tracing and monitoring to prevent further spread of the virus.
The rise in mpox cases in Ivory Coast follows a troubling trend observed globally. In DR Congo, where the outbreak has been most severe, over 500 deaths have been reported this year alone. The outbreak in DR Congo has highlighted the need for increased vigilance and international cooperation to manage and contain the virus effectively. The emergence of clade 1b, which is more contagious and deadly, underscores the importance of swift and coordinated action to address the outbreak and protect public health.
Mpox, formerly known as monkeypox, is a viral disease that can cause symptoms similar to smallpox, including fever, rash, and swollen lymph nodes. It is transmitted to humans through contact with infected animals or humans and can spread through respiratory droplets and contaminated materials. The disease is generally less severe than smallpox but can be serious in some cases, particularly for vulnerable populations.
In response to the global health emergency declared by the WHO, efforts are being ramped up to improve surveillance, increase vaccination coverage, and strengthen public health measures. The international community is working together to provide support and resources to affected regions and to prevent further spread of the virus.
As Ivory Coast navigates this outbreak, health authorities and international partners are focused on managing the situation and mitigating the impact on public health. The ongoing response involves not only addressing the immediate concerns of the outbreak but also preparing for future challenges and ensuring that adequate resources and support are in place to protect communities from the threat of mpox. The rise in cases serves as a reminder of the importance of vigilance and preparedness in the face of emerging infectious diseases and highlights the need for continued global cooperation to safeguard public health.
