Africa Health Agencies Warn Mpox Response

Tuesday 6th January 2026

By inAfrika Newsroom

Mpox vaccine supply remains a flashpoint as health agencies push to protect gains and prevent new surges across the continent.

Africa CDC’s advisory group previously urged governments to keep mpox at emergency status, warning that early complacency can cut funding and weaken surveillance. It also flagged cross-border introductions and uneven case fatality rates in several countries, alongside gaps in approvals for vaccinating younger children in high-burden settings.

Meanwhile, Reuters reported late in 2025 that a portion of mpox vaccine doses in Africa risked wastage because of short shelf life, uneven cold-chain readiness, and slow deployment in some settings. Therefore, the supply story is no longer only about “getting doses.” It is also about last-mile logistics, regulatory speed, and campaign design.

Public health officials also want better testing and faster sample transport. Africa CDC noted improvements in testing coverage during 2025, yet it warned that weak sample systems can still delay action. As a result, outbreaks can expand before teams confirm cases.

Countries that manage mpox well tend to do three things consistently. First, they train frontline workers to spot symptoms and report fast. Second, they keep lab pathways open and funded. Third, they run targeted risk communication so that communities seek care early, without stigma.

However, response teams face “multi-emergency” pressure. Cholera and other outbreaks compete for staff and money. Consequently, ministries need integrated planning so mpox work does not collapse when another crisis spikes.

Next steps — mpox vaccine supply

Health ministries and partners will focus on reducing wastage risks, improving cold-chain handling, and clearing practical rules for who can receive vaccines. Meanwhile, agencies will push stronger surveillance and quicker lab turnaround to catch outbreaks early.

Why it matters

Mpox disrupts health systems and trade confidence. It also exposes weaknesses in supply chains that matter for routine immunisation and outbreak control.