Africa’s Health Paradox: Outbreaks Decline While Mpox and Cholera Persist
Analysis by Hussaini Umar | Source: Africa CDC IMST Report
6 Countries
Mpox Concentration
Accounting for 91% of all reported continental cases.
11 Nations
Cholera Activity
Including Nigeria, fueled by cross-border migration.
Lower Trend
Vs. January 2025
General reduction in total disease outbreaks.
Mpox: The Lingering Threat
Despite the lifting of its Public Health Emergency status, Professor Yap Boum II of the Africa CDC warns that transmission is far from over. The data reveals a high concentration risk, where just six nations manage nearly the entire continent’s caseload. This suggests that while regional progress is visible, localized surveillance is failing to reach “zero-case” targets.
Cholera: The Borderless Burden
Cholera remains a “significant burden,” with Nigeria identified as a primary contributor. The Africa CDC highlights the interconnectivity of outbreaks, particularly in the Southern African corridor (Zimbabwe, Mozambique, Zambia), where cross-border movement acts as a primary vector for transmission.
Outbreak Status by Country (Jan 2026)
✓ Kenya: Outbreak Ended (Commended)
✗ Nigeria: High Burden (Active)
! Zimbabwe/Zambia: Cross-Border Linkages
