Cholera, measles, and mpox continue to drive public health activity across Africa in 2026, with new data showing a mix of declining transmission in some areas and renewed increases in others.
According to the latest Africa CDC weekly briefing, 95 moderate- to high-risk public health events have been recorded so far this year, reflecting sustained pressure on surveillance and response systems across the continent.
Cholera: uneven trends, persistent risk
Cholera remains one of the most widespread outbreaks. As of epidemiological week 15, 15 countries had reported 35,048 cases and 750 deaths. Recent trends show a split pattern. Cases have increased in Burundi, Nigeria, and Angola over the past three weeks, indicating ongoing transmission. Nigeria alone recorded a rise of more than 300 cases in that period.
At the same time, several countries—including the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC), Mozambique, and Somalia—have reported declining case numbers.
Despite these reductions, the overall burden remains high. The DRC and Mozambique together account for about 80% of reported cases, with the DRC responsible for the majority of deaths. Transmission continues to be linked to displacement, flooding, and limited access to safe water and sanitation, particularly in conflict-affected areas.
Measles: concentrated burden, ongoing transmission
Measles remains a major contributor to morbidity and mortality, with 72,544 cases and 549 deaths reported across 21 countries this year. The outbreak is highly concentrated. The DRC accounts for around 70% of cases and 95% of deaths, reflecting a combination of low vaccination coverage, population displacement, and gaps in access to healthcare.
Across the continent, case numbers have remained broadly stable compared with previous years, suggesting continued transmission rather than large-scale expansion.
Mpox: declining from peak but still active
Mpox activity has declined significantly compared with 2025, but transmission continues across multiple countries. In epidemiological week 15, 1,016 suspected cases and 157 confirmed cases were reported, with 15 countries still classified as active.
Recent data show that Madagascar, Kenya, and Guinea accounted for around 80% of confirmed cases over the previous six weeks. The broader trend suggests a transition from emergency response to more routine management, although surveillance and targeted vaccination campaigns are ongoing.
New and emerging signals
Alongside these established outbreaks, health authorities are tracking new developments. In Cameroon, a pertussis outbreak has been confirmed, with 120 suspected cases and low testing coverage. Vaccination coverage for the third dose of the pentavalent vaccine stood at just over 54% in early 2026.
In Burundi, an undiagnosed illness cluster has raised concern. Thirty-eight cases and five deaths have been reported, with a case fatality rate of about 13%. Laboratory testing has ruled out major viral haemorrhagic fevers, and investigations are ongoing.