Mpox Outbreak in Cameroon: 46 Suspected Cases, Two Fatalities Since April

The minister focused on the ongoing Mpox (monkeypox) outbreak, which the World Health Organization (WHO) has classified as a "public health emergency of international concern." 

Since the resurgence of Mpox in April 2024, Cameroon has reported 46 suspected cases. Of these, only six have been confirmed, with two resulting in fatalities.

Manaouda reassured the public that Mpox is under close surveillance across the country. “The reporting of positive cases and the circulation of the Mpox virus in a context of international public health emergency require adequate preparedness to respond to a potential surge in cases,” he stated.

On the ground, this surveillance involves various measures. The minister highlighted efforts such as: 
- Strengthening surveillance across human, animal, and environmental health sectors.
- Enhancing the capacities of health workers in managing Mpox cases.
- Improving diagnostic capabilities for Mpox.
- Developing and disseminating multisectoral awareness tools.

Cameroon is also relying on global initiatives, particularly those led by WHO, which is working on a €600 million (about 393 billion FCFA) response plan over the next six months. However, mobilizing the necessary funds remains a challenge in the global effort to contain Mpox, with the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) being a primary hotspot.