Evaluation of MPOX Epidemiological Surveillance in Senegal, 2024

Monkeypox (Mpox) is a zoonotic viral infection caused by a virus of the Orthopoxvirus genus. In response to global alerts, efforts in epidemiological surveillance and infection control have intensified, following WHO recommendations for enhanced monitoring, contact tracing, and the implementation of appropriate public health measures. This study aimed to assess the epidemiological surveillance of Mpox in Senegal in 2024. This was a retrospective, cross-sectional, descriptive, and analytical study conducted over a four-month period (from July 14 to November 10, 2024). The study population included all cases sampled as part of Mpox surveillance in Senegal during this period. Key strengths in the response included the adaptation to the IDSR Kit, training of personnel at all levels on the IDSR strategy, case definition and monitoring training, development of surveillance procedures, presence of focal points for surveillance, a diversified network of reference laboratories, and the use of an electronic case notification platform. A total of 56.25% of the initially planned priority activities were completed. During the surveillance period, 100 suspected Mpox cases were reported, corresponding to 6 cases per 1 million inhabitants. Biological samples were collected from all patients. At the time of the study, no confirmed cases of Mpox were detected. Alternative viral diagnoses were established in 32% of cases—most frequently varicella-zoster virus. Co-infections were observed in 4 patients (12.5%). The median delay between symptom onset and result availability was 7 days. Symptom duration had a median of 3 days, and the median interval from consultation to result delivery was 2 days. Longer delays were significantly observed in remote or hard-to-reach areas. Overall, patient-related delays were significantly longer than surveillance-related delays (p = 0.002). Strengthening epidemiological surveillance improves sample processing times and response effectiveness. This enhancement should be prioritized in border areas and hard-to-reach regions.