ADDIS ABABA, Jan. 23 (Xinhua) -- The Africa Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (Africa CDC) has announced the lifting of a multi-country mpox outbreak in Africa as a public health emergency of continental security.
The Africa CDC, in a statement issued late Thursday, said the decision, following recommendations from the Africa CDC Emergency Consultative Group, highlights the continent's strengthened health security, effective leadership, regional cooperation, and successful international partnerships in managing complex public health challenges.
The African Union's specialized healthcare agency first declared the outbreak a public health emergency of continental security in August 2024. The World Health Organization later designated it a public health emergency of international concern.
"Today marks a significant milestone in Africa's collective journey toward strengthened health security. This decision reflects Africa's growing capacity to lead complex public health responses, grounded in strong political leadership, regional solidarity, and effective international partnerships," the Africa CDC said.
The agency stressed that concerted efforts have delivered measurable impacts in Africa's fight against mpox.
It said between peak transmission periods in early 2025 and late 2025, suspected cases fell by 40 percent and confirmed cases by 60 percent. The case fatality rate among suspected cases also dropped from 2.6 percent to 0.6 percent, reflecting improved detection, care, coordination, and accountability across all levels of response.
Meanwhile, the Africa CDC warned that the lifting of the public health emergency of continental security does not mark the end of mpox in Africa. It said the decision signals a transition from emergency response to a sustained, country-led pathway toward elimination.
It stressed that mpox remains endemic in several settings, and continued vigilance, targeted investment, and innovation will be essential to consolidate gains and prevent resurgence.
Mpox, formerly known as monkeypox, was first detected in laboratory monkeys in 1958. It is a rare viral disease typically transmitted through body fluids, respiratory droplets, and contaminated materials. The infection often causes fever, rash, and swollen lymph nodes. ■