Sex Workers and the Mpox Response in Africa

Abstract

The ongoing mpox outbreak in Africa, now classified as a Public Health Emergency of International Concern by the World Health Organization, presents a severe challenge, particularly for vulnerable populations like sex workers. Despite the endemic presence of mpox in Africa since the 1970s, recent developments, including the emergence of a new clade Ib strain with increased transmissibility, have exacerbated the situation. Sex workers are at heightened risk due to their occupational exposure, compounded by stigma, criminalization, and limited access to healthcare. These factors significantly impede efforts to control the spread of the virus, leading to underreporting and inadequate intervention. This article highlights the urgent need for an inclusive public health response that prioritizes the health and safety of sex workers. Such a response should involve tailored health services, legal protections, and community engagement to ensure that this marginalized group is not overlooked. The decriminalization of sex work is also proposed as a critical public health measure to improve access to care and reduce stigma, ultimately curbing the spread of mpox in Africa.