Building Bridges: The Role of Effective Community Engagement Strategies for Mpox Prevention and Response

Abstract

Background and study aim: The review article explores effective community engagement strategies for Mpox prevention and response. Key approaches include targeted education campaigns, behavioral change communication, community-based surveillance, and engagement of underserved populations. Community participation in outbreak containment and collaboration with health authorities is emphasized. Case studies from Nigeria and Sudan demonstrate successful community-official partnerships in Mpox outbreak responses. The effectiveness of engagement strategies is evaluated, and policy implications are discussed, recommending integration of community involvement into national Mpox prevention frameworks. Crucial policy considerations include prioritizing high-risk groups, establishing clear guidelines, allocating sufficient resources, and ensuring inclusivity. Conclusion: For effective global Mpox control, a multifaceted approach involving community engagement, targeted interventions, improved surveillance, and vaccination programs is needed. By implementing comprehensive strategies that leverage community participation and address the zoonotic nature of the disease through a One Health approach, significant progress can be made in Mpox prevention and control efforts worldwide. This review underscores the critical role of community engagement in creating sustainable and effective public health interventions for Mpox.