Journal of Public Health in Africa最新文献

{"title":"Enhancing health security in Africa: Collaboration between public health institutes and academia.","authors":"Andrew Kambugu, Rodgers R Ayebare, Francis Kakooza, Agnes Kiragga, Aster Tsegaye, Georgina Yeboah, Leah Mbabazi, Tonny Muwonge, Tamrat Shaweno, Nebiyu Dereje, Elizabeth Gonese, Mosoka P Fallah, Tajudeen Raji, Ngashi Ngongo, Jean Kaseya","doi":"10.4102/jphia.v16i1.780","DOIUrl":"https://doi.org/10.4102/jphia.v16i1.780","url":null,"abstract":"<p><strong>Background: </strong>The COVID-19 pandemic exposed significant challenges in Africa, including weak health systems, misinformation, limited vaccine access, and a lack of local data. Effective country-level leadership, coordination, and communication were crucial in addressing these multifaceted challenges.</p><p><strong>Aim: </strong>The Program for Research on Vaccine Effectiveness (PROVE) was established to address these challenges by fostering international partnerships and advancing scientific knowledge generation toward implementing the Africa Centers for Disease Control and Prevention's New Public Health Order.</p><p><strong>Setting: </strong>The PROVE program is a collaborative initiative under the Saving Lives and Livelihoods initiative of Africa CDC and the Mastercard Foundation. It brings together a diverse network of researchers and policymakers from National Public Health Institutions and academia across Africa.</p><p><strong>Methods: </strong>The programme employs a variety of qualitative and quantitative research methods, including surveys, interviews, focus groups, and analysis of existing data, along with capacity-building efforts.</p><p><strong>Results: </strong>The PROVE program has achieved several significant results, including: developing evidence-based policy recommendations to strengthen DHIS2 and other data systems; strengthening the capacity of National Public Health Institutions; fostering collaboration among researchers, policymakers, and public health professionals; and promoting the use of local data for evidence-informed decision-making.</p><p><strong>Conclusion: </strong>The PROVE programme's collaborative approach is a valuable initiative with the potential to improve evidence generation and utilisation in Africa. By encouraging collaboration, knowledge generation and building capacity of local scientists in implementation science, the initiative helps address the challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic and builds resilience against future public health emergencies.</p><p><strong>Contribution: </strong>This paper describes PROVE's innovative approaches to generating new knowledge, developing practical approaches, and building capacity among African researchers in collaboration with policymakers.</p>","PeriodicalId":44723,"journal":{"name":"Journal of Public Health in Africa","volume":"16 1","pages":"780"},"PeriodicalIF":0.6,"publicationDate":"2025-04-16","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC12067587/pdf/","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"144020605","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"OA","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}

{"title":"COVID-19 prevention and preparedness among healthcare workers in Sierra Leone.","authors":"Ifeolu David, Tyler W Myroniuk, Mansoo Yu, Enid Schatz","doi":"10.4102/jphia.v16i1.739","DOIUrl":"https://doi.org/10.4102/jphia.v16i1.739","url":null,"abstract":"<p><strong>Background: </strong>Sierra Leone's health system has faced significant challenges, including the long-term impacts of the 2014 Ebola outbreak, prolonged conflicts before that, and economic factors contributing to the fragility of healthcare systems in many low-income settings. This qualitative study explores COVID-19 prevention practices among healthcare workers in the context of their past experiences with disease outbreaks.</p><p><strong>Aim: </strong>This study aims to understand COVID-19 prevention practices among healthcare workers in Sierra Leone and how their past experiences with disease outbreaks influence these practices.</p><p><strong>Setting: </strong>The study was conducted in three districts of Sierra Leone - Freetown, Makeni and Kenema - focusing on healthcare workers in a low-income setting with ongoing public health challenges.</p><p><strong>Methods: </strong>In-depth interviews were conducted with 24 healthcare workers, and the data were analysed for themes using the Health Belief Model and Theory of Planned Behaviour.</p><p><strong>Results: </strong>Healthcare workers demonstrated positive attitudes and strict adherence to infection prevention measures, influenced by their Ebola outbreak experience. Barriers included limited personal protective equipment and social disapproval.</p><p><strong>Conclusion: </strong>Interventions should focus on improving access to infection prevention tools and combating disapproval through community engagement. These findings are crucial for enhancing infectious disease prevention among healthcare workers in low-income settings.</p><p><strong>Contribution: </strong>This study provides insights into how past outbreak experiences influence disease prevention practices among healthcare workers in Sierra Leone, highlighting the need to address adherence barriers. These findings contribute to a broader understanding of infectious disease prevention in low-income settings and enhance global efforts in preparing for future public health emergencies.</p>","PeriodicalId":44723,"journal":{"name":"Journal of Public Health in Africa","volume":"16 1","pages":"739"},"PeriodicalIF":0.6,"publicationDate":"2025-04-16","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC12067584/pdf/","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"144023744","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"OA","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}

{"title":"Factors influencing mask use and physical distancing for COVID-19: A qualitative evidence synthesis.","authors":"Dachi I Arikpo, Okwu A Onyema, Afiong O Oku, Chibueze Meremikwu, Hannah Hamilton-Hurwitz, João P Toledo, Kathleen Dunn, April Baller, Helen J Smith, Martin M Meremikwu","doi":"10.4102/jphia.v16i2.614","DOIUrl":"https://doi.org/10.4102/jphia.v16i2.614","url":null,"abstract":"<p><strong>Background: </strong>The World Health Organization (WHO) recommends a bundle of precautions to reduce community transmission of COVID-19, including mask use and physical distancing. However, there is evidence that suggests poor adherence to these health measures community settings.</p><p><strong>Aim: </strong>To summarise qualitative research evidence on the perceptions and factors influencing masks use and physical distancing in the context of the COVID-19 pandemic.</p><p><strong>Setting: </strong>We included studies conducted in community settings.</p><p><strong>Method: </strong>An electronic database search was conducted using search terms derived from the inclusion criteria and combined in a peer-reviewed search strategy. Thirty studies were sampled. Qualitative data analysis was performed using the thematic synthesis approach. The confidence in each review finding was ascertained using the Grading of Recommendations, Assessment, Development and Evaluations - Confidence in the evidence from Reviews of Qualitative Research (GRADE-CERQual) approach.</p><p><strong>Results: </strong>Ten analytical themes of low to high confidence were identified. Values, belief systems and cultural norms shaped the perception and uptake of mask use and physical distancing. Key barriers included the cost of masks, limited infrastructure for spatial separation and inconsistent political or government messaging, while visual cues and social responsibility facilitated adherence.</p><p><strong>Conclusion: </strong>Personal values and preferences influenced individuals' adherence to these public health measures. Political or government messaging is important to aid understanding and adherence.</p><p><strong>Contribution: </strong>Insights provided by this synthesis can support future emergency preparedness and response to outbreaks of acute respiratory infections by providing policy makers with information needed to make contextually relevant recommendations to enhance adherence.</p>","PeriodicalId":44723,"journal":{"name":"Journal of Public Health in Africa","volume":"16 2","pages":"614"},"PeriodicalIF":0.6,"publicationDate":"2025-04-14","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC12067577/pdf/","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"144019569","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"OA","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}

{"title":"Barriers and sources of information in prostate cancer screening at a South African hospital.","authors":"Boitumelo M Komane, Annah Mosalo","doi":"10.4102/jphia.v16i1.666","DOIUrl":"https://doi.org/10.4102/jphia.v16i1.666","url":null,"abstract":"<p><strong>Background: </strong>Prostate cancer is a worldwide problem affecting men globally, particularly in low- and middle-income countries. However, research pertaining to barriers to screening uptake and sources of information regarding prostate cancer is limited in South Africa.</p><p><strong>Aim: </strong>The objective of the study was to explore barriers to screening and sources of information among men attending urologic clinic at a specific tertiary hospital in Gauteng.</p><p><strong>Setting: </strong>Urology clinic at a specific tertiary hospital in Gauteng.</p><p><strong>Methods: </strong>A qualitative, exploratory study was conducted with 19 conveniently selected men attending the specific clinic. Data were analysed using thematic analysis.</p><p><strong>Results: </strong>Three themes emerged which were (1) barriers to screening, (2) sources of information regarding prostate cancer and (3) symptoms experienced during screening.</p><p><strong>Conclusion: </strong>The study provided evidence regarding the lack of privacy, pain control, fear of the procedure and embarrassment as being barriers towards screening. Failure of healthcare practitioners to recommend screening when in contact with patients eligible for screening also contributed as a barrier. Media and pamphlets played a role as sources of information regarding awareness pertaining to the disease.</p><p><strong>Contribution: </strong>The study findings have a potential to help healthcare practitioners to be proactive and recommend screening for men who are eligible or might be at risk. The findings will also help healthcare practitioners to be sensitive and exercise caution in maintaining privacy during screening, and that men are informed regarding what screening procedures entail to gain their cooperation.</p>","PeriodicalId":44723,"journal":{"name":"Journal of Public Health in Africa","volume":"16 1","pages":"666"},"PeriodicalIF":0.6,"publicationDate":"2025-04-12","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC12067550/pdf/","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"144029580","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"OA","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}

{"title":"COVID-19 severity and vaccine effectiveness in Malawi: A test-negative case-control study.","authors":"Clara Sambani, Victor Chikwapulo, Regina Mankhamba, Tonny Muwonge, Mavuto Thomas, Baxter Salatiel, Edna Mandala, Leah Mbabazi, Suzan Nakasendwa, Rodgers R Ayebare, Collins Mitambo, Matthew Kagoli, Mabvuto Chiwaula, Dzinkambani Kambalame, Triza Chirwa, Liness Chinyamunyamu, Tamrat Shaweno, Nebiyu Dereje, Tajudeen Raji, Francis Kakooza, Mosoka P Fallah, Evelyn C Banda, Abigail Kazembe, Mitch Matoga","doi":"10.4102/jphia.v16i1.758","DOIUrl":"https://doi.org/10.4102/jphia.v16i1.758","url":null,"abstract":"<p><strong>Background: </strong>COVID-19 vaccines were administered globally, and Malawi commenced vaccination on 11 March 2021.</p><p><strong>Aim: </strong>This study assessed the real-world effectiveness of COVID-19 vaccines and factors associated with disease severity and mortality in Malawi.</p><p><strong>Setting: </strong>A facility-based case-control study within the largest referral hospitals.</p><p><strong>Methods: </strong>Cases (COVID-19 positive) were matched 1:1 with controls based on age, sex and testing date. Interviews via phone focused on COVID-19 testing and vaccination, underlying conditions and disease outcomes. Analysed using STATA 17, the exposure of interest was vaccination status. For vaccine effectiveness (VE), conditional logistic regression modelling was used, while disease severity and management were analysed using binary logistic regression.</p><p><strong>Results: </strong>The unvaccinated were at 53.3%, and 35.8% were fully vaccinated and/or received a booster. The VE among the fully and partially vaccinated was 10% (95% CI: -26.2, 35.81) and 31.8% (95% CI: -9.91, 57.72), respectively compared to the unvaccinated. Most of the COVID-19 patients (87.8%) were not hospitalised. Underlying chronic conditions and a previous positive COVID-19 test were associated with severe disease (aOR: 3.54, 95% CI: 1.65, 7.61 and aOR: 2.73, 95% CI: 1.13, 7.61, respectively); however, these odds were not different by vaccination status.</p><p><strong>Conclusion: </strong>The VE was low and severe disease was linked with chronic illnesses and previous positive COVID-19 tests. Efforts to promote vaccination through education and access should be enhanced, particularly for those with underlying chronic conditions.</p><p><strong>Contribution: </strong>The findings can inform strategies on prioritisation for disease vaccination and improving patient outcomes.</p>","PeriodicalId":44723,"journal":{"name":"Journal of Public Health in Africa","volume":"16 1","pages":"758"},"PeriodicalIF":0.6,"publicationDate":"2025-04-11","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC12067548/pdf/","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"144051559","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"OA","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}

{"title":"Vaccine uptake, barriers and enhancers of COVID-19 vaccination among healthcare workers from high-burden cities in Ethiopia.","authors":"Gutema B Tura, Derbachew A Teni, Saro Abdella, Jaleta B Tura, Yakob Wondarad, Getahun Fetensa, Tesfaye Gelanew, Alemseged Abdissa, Senga Sembuche, Elizabeth Gonese, Tamrat Shaweno, Nebiyu Dereje, Mosoka P Fallah, Leah Mbabazi, Rodgers R Ayebare, Agnes Kiragga, Francis Kakooza, Mesay Hailu, Getachew Tollera, Raji Tajudeen, Aster Tsegaye","doi":"10.4102/jphia.v16i1.673","DOIUrl":"https://doi.org/10.4102/jphia.v16i1.673","url":null,"abstract":"<p><strong>Background: </strong>Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) vaccination is crucial for healthcare workers (HCWs) to protect themselves and promote public health.</p><p><strong>Aim: </strong>This study assessed COVID-19 vaccination uptake, barriers and enhancers among HCWs in high-burden cities in Ethiopia.</p><p><strong>Setting: </strong>A cross-sectional survey among 600 randomly selected HCWs from 30 health facilities (May 2023 to July 2023).</p><p><strong>Methods: </strong>Interviewer-administered questionnaires assessed vaccination status, concerns and motivators. Descriptive statistics and modified Poisson regression identified factors associated with vaccination.</p><p><strong>Results: </strong>Overall, 70.3% (<i>n</i> = 422) received at least one dose, and 39.2% (<i>n</i> = 235) were fully vaccinated. Safety concerns (51.9%) were the main barrier. More information on safety and efficacy (53.1%) and regulatory approval (27.3%) were key motivators. Those not recommending vaccination were less likely to be vaccinated (prevalence ratio [PR] = 0.59, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 0.41-0.85). Professionals such as radiographers (PR = 0.78), pharmacists (PR = 0.79) and laboratory personnel (PR = 0.85) were less likely compared to physicians. Older HCWs (> 25 years) were twice as likely to be vaccinated. HCWs in health centres were more likely to be vaccinated than those in hospitals (PR = 1.201, 95% CI: 1.076-1.341).</p><p><strong>Conclusion: </strong>A significant proportion of HCWs were not fully vaccinated. Targeting hospital workers and younger age groups and improving HCWs confidence in recommending vaccination can increase uptake.</p><p><strong>Contribution: </strong>This study reveals COVID-19 vaccine safety, efficacy and confidence concerns of HCWs, highlighting the need for targeted awareness to strengthen national vaccination efforts against pandemics.</p>","PeriodicalId":44723,"journal":{"name":"Journal of Public Health in Africa","volume":"16 1","pages":"673"},"PeriodicalIF":0.6,"publicationDate":"2025-04-09","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC12067571/pdf/","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"144005227","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"OA","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}

{"title":"Perceptions about COVID-19 vaccine among healthcare workers in Rwanda: A mixed-methods study.","authors":"Erigene Rutayisire, François X Ndayambaje, Sembuche Senga, Raji Tajudeen, Darius Uzabakiriho, Solange Nikwigize, Marie F Muremba, Eric Remera, Tonny Muwonge, Leah Mbabazi, Rodgers R Ayebare, Francis Kakooza, Tamrat Shaweno, Nebiyu Dereje, Elizabeth Gonese, Mosoka P Fallah, Ayman Ahmed, Jean Claude S Ngabonziza","doi":"10.4102/jphia.v16i1.668","DOIUrl":"https://doi.org/10.4102/jphia.v16i1.668","url":null,"abstract":"<p><strong>Background: </strong>Healthcare workers (HCWs) are crucial for coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) vaccination programmes, but their perceptions of the vaccine, particularly in low-income countries, are underexplored. This study investigated HCWs perceptions of the COVID-19 vaccination in Rwanda.</p><p><strong>Aim: </strong>This study aimed to understand HCWs' perceptions of the COVID-19 vaccine in Rwanda.</p><p><strong>Setting: </strong>A convergent mixed-methods study was conducted in 45 purposively selected health facilities in Rwanda.</p><p><strong>Methods: </strong>A sample of 230 HCWs was purposively calculated to include 45 health facilities from both rural and urban districts across Rwanda to participate in this study. Healthcare workers were selected conveniently ensuring representation of the different cadres. Furthermore, one participant per facility underwent an in-depth interview. Data were analysed using STATA 17 (quantitative) and Dedoose (qualitative) software. Descriptive analysis was applied and findings presented frequencies and graphical representations. Inductive thematic analysis was performed to identify key themes in the qualitative data.</p><p><strong>Results: </strong>Most participants were female, 183 (89%), and median age was 39 years. Most were nurses and/or midwives, 98 (42.6%) and all were fully vaccinated. A total of 59 (25.7%) HCWs had little or no confidence in answering patients' questions about COVID-19 and the vaccine. Despite this, 91.3% would recommend Ministry or World Health Organization (WHO)-approved vaccines and had a positive overall perception about COVID-19 vaccine.</p><p><strong>Conclusion: </strong>The positive perception of the COVID-19 vaccine among Rwandan HCWs aligns with the country's successful vaccination programme. This potentially reflects effective national strategies. Further research into Rwanda's COVID-19 response is however, warranted.</p><p><strong>Contribution: </strong>This study reveals discrepancies in HCWs vaccine confidence in Rwanda, highlighting the need for targeted educational interventions to strengthen national COVID-19 response efforts.</p>","PeriodicalId":44723,"journal":{"name":"Journal of Public Health in Africa","volume":"16 1","pages":"668"},"PeriodicalIF":0.6,"publicationDate":"2025-04-08","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC12067494/pdf/","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"144023688","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"OA","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}

{"title":"Knowledge and perception of COVID-19 vaccination in two districts of Yaoundé.","authors":"Michelle S Djuidje Kamguia, Yves Le Grand Napa Tchuedji, Albert Ze","doi":"10.4102/jphia.v16i1.860","DOIUrl":"https://doi.org/10.4102/jphia.v16i1.860","url":null,"abstract":"<p><strong>Background: </strong>The coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic has caused considerable problems throughout the world, with an impact on both public health and economic development. The rapid spread of severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2, has led researchers to progressively develop vaccines.</p><p><strong>Aim: </strong>This study aimed to assess the perceptions and knowledge of the population of two health districts in Cameroon about vaccination against COVID-19.</p><p><strong>Setting: </strong>This study was conducted in Cameroon from November 2021 to July 2022, targeting any Cameroonian citizen over 18 years residing in Yaoundé.</p><p><strong>Methods: </strong>We conducted a cross-sectional study in two health districts of Yaoundé (Nkolndongo and Cité verte) targeting residents of each selected district who were over 18 years. The minimum sample size was calculated using the vaccination coverage rate in each district. The sampling was systematic and the questionnaire included knowledge and perceptions about the COVID-19 vaccine. The data were processed using Graphpad 8.0.1 and Microsoft Excel 2016.</p><p><strong>Results: </strong>Of the 100 participants, 59% were women. Ninety per cent of the participants had not been vaccinated against COVID-19 and 80% of those vaccinated had received one dose of the vaccine. Participants showed poor adherence to the COVID-19 vaccine, except for hairdressers (<i>p</i> = 0.158) and students from secondary education (<i>p</i> = 0.158). Vaccination was the least known preventive method (3%). Most people were obliged to take the vaccine (80%) and most religions (75%) were associated with vaccine refusal (<i>p</i> ≤ 0.0005).</p><p><strong>Conclusion: </strong>Knowledge and perceptions of COVID-19 vaccination were low and were influenced by the socio-cultural environment. It is necessary to develop a national policy for the promotion of vaccination adapted to the socio-cultural environment when planning the introduction of a vaccine.</p><p><strong>Contribution: </strong>This study demonstrates the importance of socio -anthropological, religious and scientific indicators during the planification of introduction of new vaccine in the event of pandemic or new outbreak.</p>","PeriodicalId":44723,"journal":{"name":"Journal of Public Health in Africa","volume":"16 1","pages":"860"},"PeriodicalIF":0.6,"publicationDate":"2025-04-07","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC12067608/pdf/","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"144045117","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"OA","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}

{"title":"Strengthening Africa's resilience to Mpox: Preparedness and response initiatives of the Pasteur network.","authors":"Delia D Djuicy, Benjamin Selekon, Christian Malaka, Aboubacar Soumah, Edgar Adjogoua, Hervé Kadjo, Offianan A Toure, Pierre Roques, Solène Grayo, Noël Tordo, Ousmane Faye, Abdourahmane Sow, François-Xavier Berthet, Vincent Lacoste, Soa Fy Andriamandimby, Hamidou L Ramatoulaye, Adamou Lagare, Haoua S Sabo, Ella Farra, Sandra G Ouangole, Gide Martial Yonga Wansi, Dieudonne G Essima, Jules Landry Mounchili Mouliem, Herman Philipe Nfombouot Njitoyap, Sandrine O Nkoum Kyane, Syndou Meite, Sara I Eyangoh, Mirdad Kazanji, Yap Boum, Rebecca Grais, Emmanuel Nakoune, Richard Njouom, Amadou A Sall","doi":"10.4102/jphia.v16i1.1026","DOIUrl":"10.4102/jphia.v16i1.1026","url":null,"abstract":"","PeriodicalId":44723,"journal":{"name":"Journal of Public Health in Africa","volume":"16 1","pages":"1026"},"PeriodicalIF":0.6,"publicationDate":"2025-03-31","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC11966699/pdf/","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"143781472","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"OA","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}

{"title":"Mpox after COVID-19 in Africa: Different epidemic, similar challenges.","authors":"Gloria P Gómez-Pérez, Shem O O Sam, Nicaise Ndembi, Tobias F Rinke de Wit","doi":"10.4102/jphia.v16i1.874","DOIUrl":"10.4102/jphia.v16i1.874","url":null,"abstract":"<p><p>Africa faces again a new outbreak of mpox, heavily burdening the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC). Factors such as biological and ecological changes in the virus, waning of immunity to smallpox, socio-economic challenges, and global economic strain are fueling this epidemic. To analyse the drivers of the mpox outbreak in DRC, review the international and local response, and draw lessons from the COVID-19 pandemic to propose strategies for building epidemic-resilient healthcare systems in the region. The focus is on the DRC, where the mpox epidemic is concentrated, and the broader African region, assessing both rural and urban healthcare contexts. This study synthesises epidemiological data, global health policies, and local health system responses. Key insights are drawn from COVID-19 case studies, and assessment of access to diagnostics and vaccines. The DRC hosts over 95% of Africa's mpox cases, with significant challenges in human-wildlife interactions, poverty, and weakened healthcare systems exacerbated by COVID-19. Vaccine shortages, diagnostic delays, and uneven international support reflect a repeat of challenges seen during COVID-19. Localised vaccine and diagnostics production, improved risk communication, and digital health tools are highlighted as critical interventions. An epidemic-resilient healthcare framework, leveraging local production of medical products, regulatory empowerment, and real-time data collection, is essential for controlling mpox and future outbreaks. This study underscores the need for African-led solutions, addressing socio-economic drivers, enhancing local capacities, and fostering international solidarity to mitigate future epidemic threats.</p>","PeriodicalId":44723,"journal":{"name":"Journal of Public Health in Africa","volume":"16 1","pages":"874"},"PeriodicalIF":0.6,"publicationDate":"2025-03-31","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC11966709/pdf/","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"143781446","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"OA","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}