Africa is currently reeling with various public health emergencies sparking concerns among global health experts. The Africa Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (Africa CDC) has stated that over 200 disease outbreaks were reported in 2024.
Health emergencies are on the rise in Africa. Last year, there were 213 public health outbreaks that the pan-African public health agency was monitoring, which is up from 166 in 2023. The leading killer was cholera, with more than 3,700 reported deaths, followed by measles, which reportedly claimed about 3,200 lives.
When looking at suspected cases, measles led and cholera followed with more than 234,300 and 204,100 suspected cases, respectively, Devex reported.
Over the past year, mpox was fourth outbreak in terms of suspected cases and third in reported deaths and it was one of the major focuses of Africa CDC. Last August, Africa CDC declared mpox a continental health emergency.
Moreover, Dengue and diphtheria rounded off the list of the top five diseases with the highest burdens. Addressing a virtual media briefing on Thursday, Africa CDC director-general Jean Kaseya highlighted the growing health challenges, particularly the multi-country mpox outbreak and other crises, urging unified efforts to tackle the pressing situation.
When it came to cholera, outbreaks were present across the continent last year, said Dr. Ngashi Ngongo, principal adviser to the Africa CDC director-general, during a press briefing on Thursday, as quoted by Devex.
It is noteworthy that cases of cholera have also continued to rise globally in recent years. The disease spreads through contaminated food and water. Extreme events fueled by climate change like floods, cyclones, and droughts can reduce access to clean water.
This is combined with the poor access to clean water and sanitation in many parts of the continent, Ngongo said as quoted by Devex. Weak health systems with limited levels of care and access to key health supplies also contribute to a high mortality rate. Last year, about 12 percent of confirmed cholera cases in Africa ended in death.
Due to escalating demand for the oral cholera vaccine, there’s also a global shortage of cholera vaccines which has worsen the situation. Reportedly, Africa CDC is pushing for the manufacturing of cholera vaccines in Africa. Additionally, Measles has also seen a surge worldwide, fueled by gaps in childhood vaccinations.