The World Health Organization (WHO) has raised alarm over a significant $11.1 million funding gap that threatens to derail efforts to combat a growing mpox outbreak in Uganda. With over 1,000 confirmed cases and six fatalities reported, the need for urgent intervention has become increasingly pressing.
According to a report released on Monday in Kampala, only $1.8 million of the $12.9 million required for Uganda’s outbreak response has been secured. WHO has urged global partners to step up and provide financial support to bridge the gap, warning that the high utilization rate of available resources has left the country vulnerable.
“The funding shortfall is hampering critical efforts needed on the ground,” the organization stated, calling on international donors to “urgently support the Government of Uganda in scaling up its response.”
Declared a public health emergency of international concern by WHO in August, mpox poses a serious risk of further global transmission. The Ugandan Ministry of Health, in collaboration with WHO and other stakeholders, has intensified measures to contain the virus. These efforts include enhanced surveillance systems, improved case management, widespread public awareness campaigns, and community engagement initiatives.
Mpox, caused by the monkeypox virus, primarily spreads through close contact and presents symptoms such as fever, rash, muscle pain, fatigue, and swollen lymph nodes. The outbreak has sparked concern not only in Uganda but across the region, with health experts emphasizing the need for rapid containment to prevent a broader crisis.
WHO and health authorities in Uganda continue to stress that closing the funding gap is essential to maintaining momentum in the fight against the outbreak. The international community’s response in the coming weeks will play a critical role in shaping the outcome of Uganda’s battle with mpox.