USAID aids mpox response & health security in South Sudan

The United States Agency for International Development (USAID) recently provided support to the World Health Organization to procure advanced polymerase chain reaction tests to aid in the detection of mpox. The kits, consisting of 96 tests each, will equip the South Sudan National Public Health Laboratory with essential tools to enhance the detection of the virus. The U.S. Embassy in Juba emphasized the need for vigilance and response to emerging disease threats in the region.

USAID Acting Mission Director Yohannes Araya highlighted the U.S.’s commitment to global health security and improving the health of the people of South Sudan. The U.S. has allocated funds for infectious disease surveillance and response, with the aim of building a comprehensive strategy for Global Health Security.

According to the European Medicines Agency (EMA), mpox is a disease transmitted from animals to humans, particularly rodents, but can also spread through direct contact between people. The current surge in cases in the DRC and neighboring countries is attributed to a more severe strain of mpox. Mpox can be fatal for individuals with weakened immune systems.