By Lehlohonolo Lehana.
The Africa Aerospace and Defence (AAD) Expo and Air Show, scheduled to take place from 18-22 September 2024, is set to proceed as planned despite concerns over a recent mpox resurgence in South Africa.
Event organisers have reassured participants and visitors that there is no immediate threat posed by the outbreak, and all necessary precautions have been put in place to ensure the safety of those attending.
Mpox, a viral disease that saw a resurgence in 2024 after South Africa reported no cases in 2023, has prompted concerns as the country recorded 24 cases, including three fatalities, by 18 August 2024.
The country has since logged 19 recoveries, and only two active cases are currently undergoing home isolation.
The Department of Health, in collaboration with international organisations such as the World Health Organisation (WHO) and the Africa Centres for Disease Control and Prevention (Africa CDC), has taken robust measures to contain and manage the virus.
These measures include enhanced testing, isolation protocols, and community engagement efforts to educate the public and reduce stigma.
In a statement, the organisers said, there is no indication that the mpox virus will significantly impact or pose a direct threat to the upcoming AAD Expo.
“The low number of active cases and the high recovery rate indicate that the situation is under control. We are closely monitoring developments to ensure the safety of all participants,” said AAD Exhibition Director, Nakedi Phasha.
“South African health authorities have effectively managed similar outbreaks in the past and continue to employ effective strategies, such as isolation, contact tracing, and appropriate medical treatment, to contain the virus. By following public health advice and maintaining awareness, the risk of a broader outbreak remains low, said Phasha.
Meanwhile, to address the mpox outbreak in Africa, the Africa Centres for Disease Control and Prevention (Africa CDC) has set up a 25-member incident management unit to support affected and at-risk countries.
Africa CDC has signed a partnership agreement with the European Commission’s Health Emergency
Preparedness and Response Authority (HERA) and Bavarian Nordic to provide over 215 000 doses of the MVA-BN vaccine. Africa CDC will oversee the equitable distribution of these vaccines, prioritising local needs across the affected Member States.