The “hidden pandemic” threatening Africa’s progress revolves around antimicrobial resistance (AMR) and public health emergencies like the Mpox outbreak. AMR in Africa is rapidly becoming a dominant health crisis, surpassing the mortality rates of HIV-AIDS, tuberculosis, and malaria combined. According to an Africa CDC report, AMR has a mortality rate of 27.3 deaths per 100,000 people, the highest in the world. The seriousness of this issue cannot be overstated.

Antimicrobial Resistance (AMR)

AMR is a significant and growing threat to both individuals and healthcare systems in Africa. The misuse and overuse of antibiotics in healthcare, agriculture, and food systems are exacerbating the problem, leading to harder-to-treat infections. Consequently, this results in increased illness, disability, and mortality across the continent.

Impact and Vulnerable Populations

Vulnerable populations, particularly children and individuals with compromised immune systems, bear the brunt of AMR. These groups are at the highest risk, as highlighted by the Africa CDC report. Currently, around 700,000 people die annually from global drug-resistant infections, and projections suggest this could rise to 10 million by 2050 without decisive action. In Africa, the AMR crisis could cause approximately 4.5 million of these deaths.

Need for Global Response and Funding

Addressing AMR necessitates substantial financial investment, which is estimated at USD 2-6 billion annually. Unfortunately, current funding is only a fraction of what is allocated to other major diseases. As a result, Africa remains vulnerable to this growing crisis. The Africa CDC is advocating for a multi-sectoral approach that includes infection prevention, strengthening healthcare, enhancing food systems, and investing in diagnostic and laboratory infrastructure to mitigate the impact of AMR.

Mpox Outbreak

Besides AMR, Africa is grappling with a significant public health emergency due to the Mpox outbreak. The Africa CDC has declared this situation a Public Health Emergency of Continental Security (PHECS), emphasising the urgent need for coordinated responses. The outbreak has affected various African countries, leading to a worrying increase in cases and fatalities, especially among children and individuals living with HIV/AIDS. Limited access to vaccines, diagnostics, and weak surveillance systems further complicates the outbreak scenario.

Global and Continental Coordination

Both antimicrobial resistance africa and the Mpox outbreak highlight the necessity for coordinated global and continental responses. The Africa CDC is urging international partners to provide critical support, including funding, expertise, and solidarity to combat these prevailing health emergencies.

In summary, the “hidden pandemic” threatening Africa’s progress is a complex issue comprising the escalating crisis of antimicrobial resistance Africa and the ongoing Mpox outbreak. These interconnected challenges demand urgent attention, significant financial investment, and a coordinated multi-sectoral approach to safeguard the health and well-being of African populations, especially the most vulnerable. Addressing these intertwined crises effectively is vital for the continent’s future progress.