Uncovering the root causes of the mpox outbreak with Boghuma Titanji

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This week's conversation focuses on the current spread of M-Pox (formerly Monkeypox) in Africa and the response to the outbreak. Dr. Boghuma Titanji, an infectious disease expert at Emory University, discusses the history of M-Pox outbreaks in Africa and the factors contributing to its spread. The conversation also explores the role of African governments, the Africa CDC, and the international community in addressing the outbreak. The need for increased investment in healthcare, research, and development in Africa is highlighted, as well as the importance of holding governments accountable and promoting grassroots education on healthcare funding. The conversation explores the challenges and potential solutions for Africa to produce its own vaccines and medications, emphasizing the untapped potential of the continent. It highlights the low percentage of vaccines and basic drugs manufactured in Africa and the competition with established manufacturing hubs in other countries. Trust in locally produced vaccines is also discussed, with the need to shift the mindset of consumers. The conversation emphasizes addressing infrastructure and resource limitations before focusing on vaccine production. Considering the different transmission patterns and populations affected, the need for a tailored vaccination approach for M-POX outbreaks is highlighted. Exciting developments in infectious disease research and vaccine trials in Africa are also mentioned.

00:00 The Current Spread of M-pox in Africa

14:20 The Response to the M-pox Outbreak

19:00 Underlying Issues: Lack of Investment and Prioritization

23:21 The Role of Global Solidarity in Public Health

25:45 Accountability and Self-Reliance in Healthcare

29:35 Accountability and Local Ownership

37:47 The Role of the Private Sector in Vaccine Production

50:26 Tailoring Vaccination Strategies

55:20 Promising Developments in Infectious Disease Research

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