The Africa Centres for Disease Control and Prevention (Africa CDC) is hosting a virtual press briefing to provide updates on the Mpox outbreak situation in affected African Member States, as well as the recent Marburg outbreak in Rwanda. This briefing is an invaluable opportunity for media representatives to receive firsthand information from health experts leading the response to these outbreaks.
Briefing Highlights
The briefing will feature key insights from:
- H.E. Dr. Jean Kaseya, Director General of the Africa CDC.
- H.E. Dr. Sabin Nsanzimana, Minister of Health from the Republic of Rwanda.
Date and Time
The virtual briefing took place on Thursday, October 3rd, 2024, at the following times:
- 16:00hrs – 17:00hrs East Africa Time (GMT +3)
- 15:00hrs – 16:00hrs Southern Africa Time (GMT+2)
- 14:00hrs – 15:00hrs Central Africa Countries (GMT+1)
Location and Participation
The briefing was held virtually via Zoom, ensuring accessibility for journalists across the globe. While the event has already passed, information regarding future briefings will be provided on the Africa CDC website.
Languages and Moderation
The briefing was conducted in both English and French, with simultaneous interpretation provided to facilitate clear communication and understanding among all participants.
Margaret Muigai Edwin, Director of Communication & Public Information at Africa CDC, moderated the session, ensuring a structured and informative dialogue.
About Africa CDC
The Africa CDC is a specialized technical institution of the African Union that strengthens the capacity and capability of Africa’s public health institutions as well as partnerships to detect and respond quickly and effectively to disease threats and outbreaks, based on data-driven interventions and programmes.
Learn more about the Africa CDC and its mission at: [Africa CDC Website]
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: What are the key topics covered in the briefing?
A: The briefing provided updates on the Mpox outbreak situation in Africa, focusing on affected member states. It also addressed the recent Marburg outbreak in Rwanda, highlighting the ongoing public health response and containment efforts.
Q: What is the significance of these outbreaks?
A: Both Mpox and Marburg virus disease are serious infectious diseases that pose significant public health threats. The briefing aimed to raise awareness about these diseases, their modes of transmission, and the measures being taken to control their spread.
Q: What is the role of the Africa CDC in addressing these outbreaks?
A: The Africa CDC plays a crucial role in coordinating and supporting the public health response to disease outbreaks across the African continent. This includes providing technical assistance, surveillance, laboratory capacity building, risk communication, and resource mobilization to affected member states.
Conclusion
This special press briefing served as a vital platform for sharing critical information about the Mpox and Marburg outbreaks in Africa. The Africa CDC continues to work closely with member states and partners to strengthen disease surveillance, enhance preparedness, and effectively respond to public health emergencies, protecting the health and well-being of the African population.
Source: Africa CDC press release – Weekly Special Press Briefing on the Mpox Outbreak and other Health Emergencies in Africa.