The Conversation Weekly
Why mpox in Africa was ignored for too long and children are dying as a result
Sep 12, 2024
Join virologist Wolfgang Preiser and pediatrician Nadia Adjoa Sam-Agudu as they discuss the ignored epidemic of mpox in the Democratic Republic of Congo, which is devastating young children. They reveal how existing vaccines are stockpiled in the West while Africa suffers. The conversation highlights the urgent need for child vaccination, treatment options, and a shift towards equitable health practices. Their insights emphasize the tragic consequences of global health neglect and call for immediate action to save vulnerable lives.
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Quick takeaways
- The ongoing mpox crisis in Africa has been largely ignored by the global community despite effective vaccines being available, highlighting systemic neglect.
- Children under five are particularly vulnerable to mpox due to immune development issues and increased exposure, necessitating targeted public health strategies.
Deep dives
Current MPOCs Epidemic in the DRC
The Democratic Republic of Congo is currently facing a severe monkeypox outbreak, with over 80,000 reported cases and more than 615 deaths this year alone. Alarmingly, nearly 40% of the cases involve children under the age of five, highlighting the vulnerable position of this demographic within the crisis. The World Health Organization has declared this situation a public health emergency, yet many regions are struggling with under-diagnosis due to limited healthcare resources. Issues such as inadequate diagnostic facilities and a long history of neglected infectious diseases further complicate the response to this urgent health threat.
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