Reimagining infection prevention and control in Africa through a One Health framework for the post-mpox era

Abstract The mpox resurgence in Africa from 2022 to 2025, which resulted in outbreaks in more than 25 countries, has shown that traditional methods of preventing and controlling infections are not enough. Traditional Infection Prevention and Control (IPC), which is based on siloed governance that divides human, animal, and environmental health, has not been able to handle zoonotic dangers that come from the animal-human interface. This Viewpoint contends that the post-mpox era necessitates a paradigm shift, integrating a “One Health” concept into the core of IPC in Africa. We outline four pillars for transformation: integrated surveillance, joint preparedness, community engagement, and African-led research and capacity building. And highlight both challenges and emerging opportunities. With Africa’s Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and African Union offering policy frameworks and lessons learnt from Ebola, Lassa fever, and rabies, the region is ideally positioned to lead. Through making One Health a part of its institutions, Africa can stop future pandemics and provide an example of planetary health that the whole world needs right now.