Advancing Infectious Diseases Control in Africa: Lessons From the Mpox Re-emergence

Re-emerging infectious diseases pose significant public health challenges in Africa and demand robust and coordinated responses. The Mpox virus (MPXV) has increasingly caused outbreaks with global implications, highlighting the vulnerabilities of the continent's health systems. As of April 2025, the African region has reported over 35,833 confirmed cases and 135 deaths, highlighting the urgent need to strengthen public health strategies. This review examines the lessons learned from MPXV outbreaks in Africa, emphasizing the importance of adaptive public health responses in preventing future re-emerging infectious diseases.

This review synthesized data from peer-reviewed articles, the World Health Organization (WHO) reports, and authoritative sources accessed through PubMed and other databases. We analyzed existing public health responses, infrastructure, community engagement, and international collaborations related to MPXV outbreaks in Africa, identifying gaps and opportunities for strengthening responses to re-emerging infectious diseases.

We identified key shortcomings in Africa's public health capacity, including insufficient funding, limited disease surveillance, constraints in diagnostic infrastructure, social stigma, and misinformation. Successful response strategies include regional coordination, vaccine procurement and deployment, enhanced laboratory capacity, and community engagement efforts. The lessons learned highlight the importance of sustainable funding, integrated one health approaches, and global partnerships in improving outbreak preparedness and response.

Building resilient health systems, fostering international collaboration, and engaging communities are pivotal for controlling re-emerging infectious diseases in Africa. Strategic investments in disease surveillance, diagnostic capacity, vaccination, and health education, coupled with a multi-sectoral approach, are essential for enhancing outbreak preparedness and achieving health security. The insights from MPXV outbreaks provide valuable guidance for policymakers and health practitioners aiming to strengthen Africa's public health response to future infectious disease threats.