Morocco reports first Mpox case in 2024, becomes 15th African country to confirm Mpox infection

Medical News: In a significant development, Morocco has confirmed its first case of Mpox in 2024, marking the country as the 15th on the African continent to report an infection with the Mpox (Monkeypox) for this year. This announcement comes amidst a growing outbreak across the region, which has seen a resurgence in several countries over the past months. The Moroccan Ministry of Health revealed that the infected individual, a man from Marrakech, is currently receiving treatment and is in a stable condition.


Morocco reports first Mpox case in 2024, becomes 15th African country to confirm Mpox infection

Morocco’s Response to the Mpox Outbreak
The case in Morocco was identified following the global declaration of a public health emergency of international concern last month. This declaration was made in response to the rapid spread of the Clade Ib variant, particularly in central Africa. The Moroccan health authorities have not confirmed whether this case is connected to the same clade, but efforts are underway to trace and monitor the man's contacts.
 
Mpox, also known as monkeypox, can spread through direct contact with an infected person or contaminated objects such as bedding, towels, and clothing. The virus typically causes a rash and flu-like symptoms that can last between 14 and 21 days. While most cases resolve on their own, it can be fatal, particularly for vulnerable populations like young children and immunocompromised individuals. The African CDC advises that treatment focuses on managing symptoms, caring for skin lesions, and preventing complications.
 
The Rising Tide of Mpox Cases in Africa
The Mpox outbreak in Africa has escalated significantly in 2024, with over 20,000 cases and 500 deaths reported across 14 countries. The Democratic Republic of Congo (DR Congo) remains at the epicenter of the outbreak, with more than 5,000 cases recorded this year alone. Vaccination campaigns have begun in DR Congo, but logistical challenges mean it may be several weeks before vaccines reach the most affected regions in the country’s east.
 
The director-general of the African CDC, Dr. Jean Kaseya emphasized the need for a coordinated international response when he declared the outbreak a public health emergency on the African continent. "It is clear that a concerted effort is needed to stop these outbreaks and save lives," he told mainstream media and Medical News journalists.
 
Geographic Spread and New Cases Across Africa
Since 2022, 17 African countries have reported Mpox cases, with 14 nations affected in 2024. Currently, 12 countries in the African region are actively reporting cases within the past 28 days, signaling ongoing transmission across multiple regions. The outbreak has shown no signs of slowing down, with several countries reporting their first cases or resurgences in recent weeks.
https://reliefweb.int/repor t/democratic-republic-congo/who-african-region-mpox-bulletin-06-september-2024
 
For instance, Guinea reported its first case on September 1, 2024, marking a new chapter in its surveillance and control efforts. Similarly, the Republic of Congo, which had previously managed to control transmission, has reported new cases in August, signaling a reactivation of the virus. In Liberia, authorities confirmed a new case on August 30, and Kenya reported a case from Mombasa County in early September. The Kenyan case involved a truck driver who had previously come into contact with an infected person, raising concerns about cross-border transmission in East Africa.
 
The situation is also worsening in the Central African Republic and Burundi. The Central African Republic confirmed three new cases in the last week of August, while Burundi saw a sharp spike, with 23 new cases reported in just three days. These developments are raising alarms, particularly as vaccination coverage remains low in many of the affected areas.
 
The Role of Vaccines and International Support
Vaccination has been identified as a critical measure in controlling the spread of Mpox. However, several African countries face significant logistical challenges in distributing vaccines to the most affected areas. DR Congo has received doses of the vaccine, but the complex terrain, poor infrastructure, and ongoing conflicts in the east of the country have delayed their arrival in the most vulnerable regions. As a result, it could take several weeks before high-risk populations receive protection.
 
International organizations and governments are working together to improve vaccine access and provide support to the countries hit hardest by the outbreak. The African CDC has emphasized the importance of global cooperation, as Mpox has proven to spread beyond national borders rapidly. Additionally, public health education campaigns are being ramped up to inform communities about the risks of Mpox and the best practices for preventing transmission.
 
What Lies Ahead for Morocco and Africa?
For Morocco, the confirmed Mpox case highlights the country’s vulnerability to the ongoing outbreak. While Moroccan health authorities have acted quickly to isolate the infected individual and trace his contacts, the risk of further transmission remains. As vaccines roll out across the continent, Morocco may benefit from increased international assistance to prevent the virus from spreading further.
 
The situation in Africa continues to evolve, with health experts closely monitoring transmission trends and the effectiveness of vaccination efforts. The continent faces a daunting task in containing the outbreak, given the diverse challenges that vary from country to country. However, with a coordinated response and international support, there is hope that the tide of Mpox cases will eventually be stemmed.
 
As of now, the African CDC and African governments remain on high alert, preparing for what could be a long and difficult battle against this virus.
 
Conclusion
Morocco’s first confirmed Mpox case is a stark reminder of the virus's relentless spread across Africa. With over 20,000 cases and climbing, the need for a concerted, international effort is more urgent than ever. Vaccination, public health education, and strong surveillance systems will be key to controlling the outbreak and preventing further loss of life. For now, Africa continues to fight on multiple fronts, facing both old and new health challenges.
 
For the latest Mpox News, keep on logging to Thailand Medical News.
 
Read Also:
https://www.thailandmedical.news/news/africa-s-cdc-reports-107-new-mpox-monkeypox-deaths-and-3160-new-infections-in-the-last-7-days
 
https://www.thailandmedical.news/news/australia-faces-alarming-resurgence-of-mpox-clade-2b-cases-179-cases-in-august-alone-and-12-new-cases-in-the-last-48-hours