The United Nations has raised alarms about escalating outbreaks of measles, mpox, and Marburg virus disease across East Africa. UN spokesperson Stéphane Dujarric disclosed on Wednesday that the region continues to face multiple health emergencies alongside severe humanitarian challenges.
“Measles and mpox outbreaks continue, with at least 776 mpox cases reported in the region as of September 26,” Dujarric revealed while briefing reporters in New York.
A new threat is also emerging as the deadly Marburg virus spreads. “At least 29 cases have been confirmed in Rwanda, and that includes nine fatalities,” Dujarric added. Most of these cases have been among healthcare workers, with nearly 300 contacts being closely monitored by health authorities.
The Marburg virus, a zoonotic haemorrhagic disease, is transmitted from fruit bats to humans, with human-to-human transmission occurring through direct contact with infected bodily fluids. There is currently no vaccine or specific treatment for the disease.
Dujarric further emphasized the extensive humanitarian crisis affecting the area. He noted, “Recent estimates from aid workers in East Africa show that almost 67 million individuals in the region require assistance, which accounts for over 20 percent of the worldwide total of people needing help.”
The challenges in the region stem from a mix of climate change, conflict, political turmoil, economic disruptions, and persistent disease outbreaks. Nevertheless, only 38 percent of the $9.3 billion needed for humanitarian assistance in East Africa this year has been secured.
Dujarric stated, “The lack of funding is limiting our ability, as well as that of our partners, to increase support.”
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