Global Leader Identifies New Virus Crisis, Urges Worldwide Solidarity

Pope Francis declares mpox a global health emergency as Africa prepares to receive its first vaccine shipment.

At a Glance

Pope Francis and WHO declare mpox outbreak a global health emergency
Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) reports over 17,000 confirmed cases
New, more deadly strain (clade 1b) emerges, affecting children and young people
African countries await vaccines, with US and Japan pledging donations
Concerns raised about equitable access to healthcare and vaccine distribution

Pope’s Call to Action Amid Rising Concerns

In a significant move, Pope Francis has declared the mpox outbreak a “global health emergency,” echoing the World Health Organization’s (WHO) stance. This declaration comes as African nations, particularly the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), grapple with a surge in cases and prepare to receive their first shipment of mpox vaccines.

The Pope’s statement highlights the critical need for a unified international response to the health crisis. He expressed particular concern for the DRC, which has reported over 17,000 of the 18,000 confirmed cases globally.

Pope Francis offers his solidarity with Mpox sufferers, especially in the Democratic Republic of Congo, which is struggling with a widening outbreak that is becoming a global health emergency.https://t.co/k36KevgYhx

— Vatican News (@VaticanNews) August 25, 2024

Africa’s Struggle and International Response

The situation in Africa, especially in the DRC, has become increasingly dire. A new, more deadly strain known as clade 1b has emerged, with a mortality rate of 3.6% and disproportionately affecting children and young people under 15. This development has intensified the urgency for vaccine distribution and comprehensive healthcare measures.

“I express my sympathy to the local Churches in the countries most affected by this disease and I encourage governments and private industries to share available technology and treatments so that no one lacks adequate medical care,” Pope Francis, as reported in Vatican News.

In response to the crisis, the United States has pledged to donate 10,000 vaccines for use across East Africa. Japan has also agreed to send 3.5 million doses, specifically for children. However, these efforts highlight the stark disparity in vaccine availability between developed nations and African countries.

Challenges in Vaccine Distribution

While mpox vaccines are readily available in over 70 countries, African nations like the DRC face significant hurdles in accessing them. The Africa CDC has stated a need for 10 million doses to effectively control the outbreak, underscoring the massive gap between current donations and actual requirements.

“Remember that the Holy Spirit always guides history towards higher projects. May the Immaculate Virgin protect you in times of trial and help you feel her motherly tenderness. May Our Lady accompany the beloved people of Nicaragua.” https://www.vaticannews.va/en/pope/news/2024-08/pope-expresses-solidarity-with-those-suffering-from-mpox-drc.html

Helen Rees, a member of the Africa CDC’s mpox emergency committee, criticized the delay in vaccine distribution to Africa, drawing parallels to the inequities observed during the Covid-19 pandemic. The WHO has called on mpox vaccine manufacturers to submit information for emergency licensing and urged continued donations until September, aiming to bridge this critical gap.

Global Implications and Future Outlook

The mpox outbreak serves as a stark reminder of the interconnectedness of global health. As cases spread beyond Africa, with outbreaks reported in Burundi, Kenya, Rwanda, Uganda, and even a case detected in Sweden, the international community faces a critical test of its ability to respond swiftly and equitably to emerging health threats.

“The current upsurge of mpox in parts of Africa, along with the spread of a new sexually transmissible strain of the monkeypox virus, is an emergency, not only for Africa, but for the entire globe,” said Dimie Ogoina,chair of WHO’s mpox emergency committee and president of the Nigeria Infectious Diseases Society. “Mpox, originating in Africa, was neglected there, and later caused a global outbreak in 2022. It is time to act decisively to prevent history from repeating itself.”

As the world grapples with this latest health challenge, the Pope’s call for unity and moral accountability resonates strongly. It emphasizes the need for global cooperation in tackling health emergencies that transcend borders and impact all of humanity, regardless of geographical or economic boundaries.