In a significant development for public health in Africa, Angola has reported its first case of MPOX (formerly known as Monkeypox), marking a new chapter in the ongoing battle against emerging infectious diseases. From now on, the country is facing an international health challenge that requires rapid and coordinated action, combining science, communication, and compassion to protect the population and reduce stigma.

MPOX, a viral disease that causes fever, rashes, and sometimes severe complications, is closely related to smallpox but is generally less fatal. Historically, MPOX was mainly confined to a few countries in Central and West Africa. However, in recent years, unprecedented cases have been recorded worldwide, causing alarm and highlighting the vulnerabilities of even the most developed nations. Angola, like many countries on the African continent, has historically dealt with numerous health crises, from HIV/AIDS to Marburg, and has developed a deep understanding of the need for robust health systems to respond to such outbreaks.

However, this case signals the growing interconnectedness of global health risks and the importance of vigilance and preparedness. Angola now faces the task of preventing MPOX from spreading further while managing the anxiety that often accompanies new outbreaks. The lessons learned from other recent infectious disease outbreaks will be crucial in guiding Angola’s response to MPOX.

How do we act and protect everyone?

Angola’s Ministry of Health, in collaboration with different ministries and their strategic partners, including families, must act decisively, ensuring the rapid isolation of infected individuals, contact tracing and public education campaigns to mitigate transmission.

A critical element of this response will be transparency and clear communication. There is often a tendency to stigmatise diseases, particularly those of unknown origin or with unusual symptoms. With the international media spotlight on Angola, government officials, health organisations and the media must work together to dispel myths, provide accurate information, and avoid creating unnecessary fear. This is especially important in the case of a disease like MPOX, which can be easily misunderstood due to its similarities to smallpox and the sensationalist media coverage that often accompanies new health threats.

In addition, Angola must act to ensure that public health infrastructures are equipped for a comprehensive response. There are vaccines and antiviral treatments for MPOX, but priority needs to be given to access to these resources for high-risk populations and frontline health workers. Capacity building in diagnostic testing, disease surveillance and contact tracing will be essential to prevent the virus from spreading beyond the initial case.

In dealing with MPOX, one of the most critical challenges Angola may face is dealing with public perception and promoting understanding of how the disease is transmitted. Although the disease is spread mainly through close contact with infected individuals or animals, the fear of widespread contagion can create unjustified panic. This makes education a crucial tool in preventing the spread of the virus and the social consequences of stigma.

Finally, regional cooperation will be crucial. The case of Angola is not an isolated incident. Neighbouring countries are equally vulnerable to outbreaks of infectious diseases. Coordinating public health responses, sharing resources, and collaborating on research into vaccines and treatments will be necessary to protect the entire region.

The appearance of MPOX in Angola should be seen as a challenge and an opportunity to strengthen the country’s health infrastructure and demonstrate solidarity with the global community in the fight against infectious diseases. It is a reminder that no country is immune to the risks of diseases and that preparedness, compassion and collaboration are crucial to overcoming them.

Angola, with its experience in managing epidemics and the resilience of its people, is well-placed to deal with the crisis. By responding quickly, sharing accurate information, and demonstrating leadership, the country can contain the spread of MPOX and continue its progress towards improving the population’s health. Faced with such challenges, the global health community must stand together - because, as the first case of MPOX in Angola shows, the world is increasingly interconnected, and no country can afford to go it alone.

By: Dr. Walter Firmino, WHO Emergency Health Officer in Angola.