Arbovirus Epidemics as Global Health Imperative, Africa, 2023

Abstract

Arboviruses represent a major cause of illness in Africa and have the potential to trigger widespread epidemics. We present data on arbovirus epidemics in Africa in 2023 and demonstrate the need for global public health authorities to intensify efforts in the surveillance and control of arbovirus diseases. Data were collected from the World Health Organization Weekly Bulletin on Outbreaks and Other Emergencies, Africa Centers for Disease Control and Prevention Weekly Event Based Surveillance Report, and other online sources. In 2023, a total of 7 arboviruses were responsible for 29 outbreaks across 25 countries in Africa, 22 of which occurred in West Africa; the outbreaks resulted in 19,569 confirmed cases and 820 deaths. Arbovirus epidemics in Africa pose a threat not only to public health within the continent but also globally, underscoring the urgent need for substantial investment in arbovirus surveillance, research, and preparedness capacities in Africa to prevent and respond to health crises effectively.