Mpox outbreak: Africa CDC, ECOWAS prioritize community response.

Public health experts have called for increased investment in community engagement and coordinated strategies to combat the resurgence of Mpox across West Africa. 

The call was made during a recent regional webinar hosted by the Africa CDC and the ECOWAS RCCE Network, with key speakers highlighting the critical need for a united approach, emphasizing that a community-driven response is essential to effectively manage the outbreak and reduce mortality rates.

The Regional Incident Manager at Africa CDC, Dr. Usman Shehu, who identified high-risk groups, including individuals with direct contact with confirmed cases, announced an investment of over one million dollars to support countries like Nigeria and Liberia, providing resources such as vaccines, personal protective equipment, and enhanced surveillance capabilities aimed at curbing the spread of the virus.

Also speaking, the Director of the Health Promotion Service in Guinea, Dr. Moussa Soumah, highlighted the importance of sustainable financing for risk communication and community engagement, warning against chronic underfunding in these areas, noting that successful health strategies must involve community input at all stages. 

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