Authors: Ngashi Ngongo, Yap Boum II, Kyeng Mercy, Landry D. Tsague, Wazih N. Cho, Gervais L. Folefack Tengomo, Abou Beckr Gaye, Laura N. Ambe, Nebiyu Dereje, Jean Kaseya
In response to the mpox outbreak declared a health emergency in 2024, Africa CDC and WHO led a coordinated effort across Africa with strong support from governments and global partners. A key part of the response was deploying thousands of community health workers (CHWs) in high-risk areas to support case tracking, vaccination, and public education. While major progress was made; like securing vaccines, expanding labs, and training health workers; challenges remain, especially in countries like the DRC where weak surveillance and delays in test results slow down the response. CHWs have proven vital in reaching communities quickly and stopping the spread of disease. Moving forward, countries are being urged to better support and include CHWs in outbreak planning, treat them fairly, and make them a permanent part of health systems to strengthen future emergency responses.
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Resource Topic: CHW Role, mPox
Resource Type: Editorial
Year: 2025
Region: Africa
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Publisher May Restrict Access: No