Caught between violence: Mpox virus and the perils of neglect in Africa

Countries in Africa are grappling with an ongoing multi-country outbreak of the Mpox virus. Despite the longstanding presence, there are significant limitations, including restricted access to medical countermeasures such as diagnostics, therapeutics and vaccines.

This commentary examines three forms of ‘violence’ driving the Mpox outbreaks: the shifting epidemiology of the virus, socio-economic inequalities and insecurity, and global inequities in access to research funding, testing, treatments and vaccines.

To mitigate the ongoing outbreak, we call for the deployment of a strengthened frontline health workforce, systems for socio-economic support for the worst affected groups and equitable access to life-saving medical countermeasures including diagnostics, therapeutics and vaccines.

Additionally, the sequential declaration of Mpox as an international emergency also calls for synergy among key stakeholders to enhance operational efficiencies. The ability to work together will be crucial for the control and elimination of Mpox.

Long-term strategies require a paradigm shift in resource allocation towards efficient and resilient primary and public health structures, a shared regional epidemic framework and funding mechanism, and equitable participation in governance that fosters access to medical countermeasures, research opportunities and funding.