Europe comes second with 27,529
cases, comprising 27.8% of the global total. Photo: Courtesy
By
Adonis Byemelwa
Amid
a global surge in monkeypox infections, Africa remains significantly affected,
with 4,232 confirmed cases, accounting for 4.3% of the worldwide tally. The
World Health Organization (WHO) revealed these figures yesterday, 19th
August 2024, highlighting the continent’s vulnerability as the disease spreads
rapidly across 116 countries.
While
North and South America bear the brunt with over 62,000 cases, Africa's
situation is a stark reminder of the challenges in managing emerging health
crises. As the numbers climb globally, the urgency to reinforce health measures
across African nations becomes ever more critical.
Globally,
99,176 cases have been confirmed in 116 countries, with North and South America
leading with 62,904 cases, which accounts for 63.4% of the total.
Europe
comes second with 27,529 cases, comprising 27.8% of the global total. So far,
208 people have lost their lives to the disease, reflecting a mortality rate of
0.2%.
The
announcement was made today, Monday, August 19, 2024, by Tanzania's Health
Minister, Jenista Mhagama, who assured that Tanzania has not yet reported any
cases of the disease. In her statement, which quoted WHO data, Health Minister
Jenista confirmed that the disease has claimed 208 lives worldwide, equivalent
to 0.2% of those infected.
"To
date, no case of Mpox has been confirmed in the country. The Ministry of Health
is taking several measures to prevent the entry of this disease into
Tanzania," the Minister stated in her report.
Despite
the absence of reported cases in Tanzania, Minister Jenista outlined the
ongoing preventive measures being taken by the ministry to keep the disease at
bay. These include enhancing screening procedures for travelers at border
health services in ports, land borders, and airports to detect individuals
showing signs or symptoms of the disease and taking appropriate action.
The
measures also involve monitoring individuals within communities who may show
signs or symptoms of the disease to provide prompt care and reduce the risk of
transmission if the disease enters the country.
"In
collaboration with regional health teams, local authorities, community health
providers, and health service centers, we have strengthened readiness in health
facilities, diagnostic laboratories, access to medication, and protective
equipment to ensure we can offer appropriate care if the disease emerges in
Tanzania.
"We
are also conducting public awareness campaigns through various channels,
including television, radio, and social media, to inform the public about the
progress of the disease and the necessary precautions to take," the
statement read.
The
Ministry of Health has urged individuals who notice symptoms such as fever,
rashes, fatigue, and swollen lymph nodes to seek medical attention immediately
for examination.
Another
crucial recommendation is to report individuals exhibiting signs or symptoms of
monkeypox by calling the free emergency number 199 for assistance.
"Avoid
physical contact, such as shaking hands, hugging, or engaging in sexual
activity with someone showing signs of Mpox, and refrain from touching fluids
from an infected person. Wash hands frequently with running water and soap or
use hand sanitizers.
"In
this regard, I urge public places, households, and various institutions,
including schools, colleges, and health service centers, to ensure that
handwashing facilities with running water and soap are readily available to
facilitate regular handwashing," the statement emphasized.
Additional
preventive steps include cleaning and disinfecting items an infected person
uses and frequently touched surfaces using soap or chlorine-based disinfectants
like bleach.
Another
critical precaution is to avoid consuming or handling carcasses or animals that
might carry the virus. If close contact with someone showing Mpox symptoms is
necessary, wearing a mask is crucial for protection.
The
rise of such epidemics is often driven by a mix of factors, including
deforestation, wildlife trade, and human encroachment into previously untouched
habitats. These disruptions to ecosystems increase the risk of zoonotic
diseases jumping from animals to humans. As well, globalization and increased
travel accelerate the spread, turning local outbreaks into global health
crises.
In
these situations, pharmaceutical companies and the healthcare industry often
benefit from increased demand for vaccines and treatments. However, the true
losers are the communities most vulnerable to these diseases—those in regions
with limited healthcare access, where the social and economic impacts are
severe. The recurring nature of outbreaks underlines the need for stronger
global health systems and preventive measures to address future epidemics
before they escalate.
