What's happened
Namibia faces a shortage of mpox vaccines amid rising cases in neighboring Angola. The Ministry of Health confirms no local cases but emphasizes vigilance. WHO's support is crucial as mpox is declared a Public Health Emergency of International Concern, with significant outbreaks in Congo, Uganda, and Burundi.
Why it matters
What the papers say
According to All Africa, Namibia's Ministry of Health confirmed the absence of mpox vaccines, stating, "We do not have mpox vaccines in Namibia yet." This highlights the urgency of the situation as cases rise in Angola. AP News reports that WHO has approved a new vaccine for children, emphasizing the vulnerability of younger populations in Congo, where cases have surged. The WHO's proactive measures in training health workers and enhancing public awareness are crucial in managing the outbreak, as noted by Dr. Frank Lule, Acting WHO Representative in Ghana, who stated, "Mobilizing resources to support risk communication... has proven critical."
How we got here
Mpox, related to smallpox, has seen a resurgence, particularly affecting children in Africa. The WHO declared it a Public Health Emergency of International Concern in August 2024, prompting countries to enhance their response strategies and vaccine distribution efforts.
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