Ms. Que BanhA new #ResearchNetwork set up to help counter #Africa’s surge in #mpox cases is urgently seeking #funding, as #outbreaks emerge in previously unaffected parts of the continent.
Mpox is an #InfectiousDisease caused by the #monkeypox #virus. It can cause a painful rash, enlarged lymph nodes and fever. Although most people make a full recovery, it can develop into a serious, or fatal illness.
A #consortium, called #MpoxReC, was announced in #TheLancet in May this year. Jean Nachega, coordinating committee chair, says the immediate priority is to secure funding for research activities across #MpoxEndemic countries.
The focus is in response to burgeoning outbreaks, not only in #endemic countries, but also in previously unaffected parts of Africa, especially through sexual contact. Nachega and co-authors of The Lancet announcement say the continent’s leading mpox #scientists continue to struggle to secure critical #research funding to help contain the persistent threat.
“Mpox is a serious #health concern, not only for #African countries but for the world. #COVID19 showed clearly that #viruses have no respect for borders, and if we don’t accelerate efforts to eliminate mpox in Africa, we risk its spread to other continents,” Nachega tells #NatureAfrica.
