COVID-19 African region (WHO Africa, Week 23: 29 MAY-04 JUNE 2023)

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WEEKLY BULLETIN ON OUTBREAKS
AND OTHER EMERGENCIES

Week 17: 18 – 24 April 2022
Data as reported by: 17:00; 24 April 2022
...

Coronavirus disease 2019 African region

8 313 794 Cases
170 650 Deaths
2.1% CFR

EVENT DESCRIPTION

In the week ending 24 April 2022, over 24 678 new COVID-19
infections with 177 new deaths were reported from 30 and 13
countries, respectively, in the WHO African Region. This translates
into a 69.0% increase in number of cases and 136% increase in
number of deaths.

A total of 26 countries (55.0%) reported a decrease of 20% or
more in the number of new cases (Table 1), while Algeria, Burundi,
Eswatini, Kenya, Rwanda, South Africa, and Togo saw a 20% or more
increase in weekly cases compared to the past week.

Most (96.0%, 23 587) of the new cases were reported from the
top five countries, with South Africa recording the highest number
(21 681 new cases, 137.0% increase, 36.0 new cases per 100 000
population), followed by Burundi (831 new cases, 707.0% increase,
7.0 new cases per 100 000), Zambia (469 new cases, 55.0%
decrease, 2.4 new cases per 100 000), Seychelles (330 new cases,
37.0% decrease, 332.0 new cases per 100 000), and Zimbabwe (276
new cases, 10.0% decrease, 2.0 new cases per 100 000).

Similarly, an increase in weekly COVID-19 deaths was observed in
the African region during the period 18 to 24 April 2022, compared
to the previous week. South Africa reported the highest numbers of
new deaths (156 new deaths; 203.0% decrease; 0.3 new deaths per
100 000 population), followed by Zimbabwe (5 new deaths; 17.0%
decrease; 0.0 new deaths per 100 000), Eswatini (2 new deaths; 0.0%
change; 0.2 new deaths per 100 000), Mali (2 new deaths; 0.0%
increase; 0.0 new deaths per 100 000), and Côte d’Ivoire (2 new
death; 0.0% change; 100.0 new deaths per 100 000).

As of 24 April 2022, the cumulative number of infections in the WHO
African Region stands at 8 313 794 and 170 650 deaths, resulting in
a CFR of 2.1%. More than 7.6 million recoveries have been recorded,
giving a recovery rate of 92.0%.

South Africa has recorded the highest number of COVID-19 cases
and deaths in the region, with 3 762 911 cases (45.3% of all reported
cases) and 100 303 deaths (59.0% of all reported deaths), followed
by Ethiopia with 470 434 cases (5.7%) and 7 510 deaths (4.4%).

From 25 February 2020 to 24 April 2022, a total of 159 905 COVID-19
infections (2.0% of all cases) occurred among health workers in the
region, with South Africa accounting for 45.0% (71 113) of the total
infections. Kenya (12 720, 8.0%), Algeria (11 936, 8.0%), Zimbabwe
(11 609, 7.3%) and Namibia (5 342, 3.3%) have also recorded high
numbers of health worker infections. Other countries reporting
health worker infections are shown in Table 1. The United Republic
of Tanzania (10.0%), Liberia (6.0%), Zimbabwe (4.7%), Algeria
(4.5%), and Burkina Faso (4.1%) have the highest proportion of
health worker infections by country. Only Eritrea has not reported
any healthcare worker infections.

The African continent has reported a cumulative total of 11.8 million
infections. In addition, more than 253 705 deaths (CFR 2.2%) and
more than 11 million people have recovered. The African continent
accounts for 2.3% of global cases and 4.1% of global deaths.
Scientific researchers in Botswana and South Africa detected new
sub-lineages of the Omicron variant of the SARS-CoV-2 and are
carrying out further investigations to fully understand critical
traits such as infectivity and virulence. The identified sub-lineages
variant are BA.4 and BA.5. WHO experts are currently working with
scientists and researchers in the two countries to further investigate
on the sub-lineages which have so far been identified in four people
in Botswana and 23 in South Africa. As of 17 April, the sub-variants
had been identified in four people in Botswana. South Africa has
reported 168 cases of BA.4 and 56 cases of BA.5

Currently there is no significant epidemiological difference observed
between the new sub-lineages and known sub-lineages of the
Omicron variant. WHO is supporting countries that have sequencing
capacity, but are facing supply or skill shortages. For countries
with no sequencing capacity, WHO offers trainings and provides
laboratory supplies.

SITUATION INTERPRETATION

Although new COVID-19 cases and deaths have continued to decline
across the WHO African region, the rate of decline has been marginal
in recent week. A sharp increase in weekly cases and deaths was
observed in the past week and this was due to the significant
increase seen in South Africa. No countries currently meet the
criteria for resurgence. However, with the cold season approaching
in the southern hemisphere in June through August, there is a high
risk of another wave of new infections. Africa’s previous pandemic
waves have often coincided with lower temperatures. In addition,
new variants can impact the evolution of the pandemic.

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WEEKLY BULLETIN ON OUTBREAKS
AND OTHER EMERGENCIES

Week 18: 24 April – 1 May 2022
Data as reported by: 17:00; 1 May 2022
...

Coronavirus disease 2019 African region

8 332 635 Cases
170 712 Deaths
2.1% CFR

EVENT DESCRIPTION

The COVID-19 pandemic continues to evolve on the African
continent with a total of 11.8 million confirmed cases and 252 922
deaths reported as of 1 May 2022. So far, there have been 10.84
million (93%) recoveries reported. Africa accounts for 2.3% and
4.1% of the reported global cases and deaths respectively. In the
WHO African Region, sub-Saharan Africa and Algeria, a total of
8.35 million cases with 170 733 deaths have been recorded since
the onset of the pandemic.

In the past week (week ending 1 May 2022), 37 741 new cases
were reported in Africa against 31 410 in the previous week,
signifying a 20% increase week-on-week. The majority of the
new cases reported were from five countries and accounted for
94.0% of all new cases in the reporting period namely, South
Africa (32 852), Burundi (920), Zambia (749), Tunisia (661), and
Eswatini (363).

Conversely, the number of deaths reported continued to decline
for the fifth straight week. A total of 94 new deaths were reported
in epidemiological week 18 (the week ending 1 May 2022)
compared to 298 deaths in the previous week, signifying a 68.0%
decline. South Africa (60), Tunisia (17), Morocco (4), Seychelles
(3), and Botswana (2) made up the top five countries with the
highest number of deaths reported in the period and accounted
for 91.0% of all deaths during the period.

From 25 February 2020 to 1 May 2022, a total of 159 929 COVID-19
infections (2.0% of all cases) occurred among health workers
in the region, with South Africa accounting for 45.0% (71 113)
of the total infections. Kenya (12 720, 8.0%), Algeria (11 936,
8.0%), Zimbabwe (11 609, 7.3%) and Namibia (5 366, 3.3%)
have also recorded high numbers of health worker infections.
Other countries reporting health worker infections are shown in
Table 1. The United Republic of Tanzania (10.0%), Liberia (6.0%),
Zimbabwe (4.7%), Algeria (4.5%), and Burkina Faso (4.1%) have
the highest proportion of health worker infections by country.
Only Eritrea has not reported any healthcare worker infections.
African countries continue to make great strides towards self
sufficiency in genome sequencing. WHO has provided more than
US$ 6.5 million to help African countries either increase existing
sequencing capabilities or build new expertise. Sequencing
capacities have ramped up five-fold in the past year. Between
January and April 2021, African laboratories had reported about
7 900 sequences. During the same period in 2022, African
laboratories reported 37 600 sequences. As of 26 April, African
countries have produced nearly 104 600 sequences.

SITUATION INTERPRETATION

Increase in new cases and deaths across African continent in
not unexpected given previous pattern of the pandemic. This
increase which is largely driven by Southern Africa comes at a
time when the winter season is about to begin in this subregion, a
period normally associated with increase in respiratory infection.
Results from environmental surveillance in South Africa
also point to increase positive samples of SARS-CoV2 from
wastewater, providing early warning for potential increase in new
infection. The risk associated with further spread remains high
given reduced implementation and compliance to public health
measures including vaccination.

...

https://apps.who.int/iris/bitstream/handle/10665/353957/OEW18-240401052022.pdf
https://www.afro.who.int/health-topics/disease-outbreaks/outbreaks-and-other-emergencies-updates

 

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WEEKLY BULLETIN ON OUTBREAKS
AND OTHER EMERGENCIES

Week 19: 2 – 8 May 2022
Data as reported by: 17:00; 8 May 2022
...

Coronavirus disease 2019 African region

8 401 088 Cases
170 896 Deaths
2.0% CFR

EVENT DESCRIPTION

The COVID-19 pandemic continues to unfold in the African region
with new cases increasing for the third consecutive week. In the
past week (week ending 8 May 2022), a total of 47 136 new cases
were reported across the region. This represents a 24% weekon-week
increase in new cases compared to the previous week
(week ending 1 May 2022), when 38 164 cases were reported.
Most (99%, n=46 561) of the new cases were reported from five
countries namely, South Africa (45 625), Eswatini (307), Burundi
(293), Namibia (241) and Kenya (95).

COVID-19 associated deaths also increased by 117% over the
past week in the African region with a total of 165 new deaths
reported compared to 76 in the previous week. All new deaths
were reported from five countries namely, South Africa (160),
Eswatini (2), Burkina Faso (1), Mali (1) and Namibia (1).

Cumulatively, a total of 8.4 million cases with 170 896 deaths
(case fatality ratio 2.0%) have been recorded in the WHO African
region since the onset of the pandemic. The WHO African region
which consists of Sub-Saharan Africa and Algeria accounts for
71.6% and 67.5% of the African continent’s cumulative 11.7
million cases and 253 118 deaths respectively reported since the
onset of the pandemic.

Although no country in the African region has experienced a full
resurgence of the pandemic, analyses of epidemiological and
contextual factors indicate that Burundi, Eswatini, Mali, Namibia,
Mauritius, Seychelles, and South Africa have recently experienced
increased incidence of COVID-19.

South Africa continues to drive the pandemic in the region and
accounts for 97% of the new cases and deaths respectively
reported in the past week. New cases increased for the third
consecutive week in South Africa with a 39% week-on-week rise
in the past week. Deaths also rose by 167% (from 60 to 160).
Gauteng province remains at the epicentre of the pandemic and
reported the highest number of cases in the past week. All other
provinces reported a rise in the weekly incidence of COVID-19
cases. Omicron remains the dominant SARS-CoV-2 variant in
South Africa and the recently designated BA.4 and BA.5 sublineages
which started increasing in prevalence since March 2022
are now dominant.

SITUATION INTERPRETATION

South Africa is at the start of its fifth wave of the pandemic, with
rapid increase in cases over the last few weeks driven largely
by the highly transmissible BA.4 and BA.5 sub-lineages of the
Omicron variant. Although with modest increase, hospitalizations
and deaths are likely to remain low relative to previous waves due
to high seroprevalence from either prior infection or vaccination.
However, caution needs to be exercised and public health actions
enhanced to stem the current wave of transmission to prevent
potential resurgence of the pandemic or further mutation of the
virus that could complicate response efforts.

Surveillance and response efforts in neighbouring countries and
across the region will need to be strengthened in the wake of this
rapid increase given the pandemic trajectory at similar period in
the past years. The risk associated with further spread remains
high in the African region given easing of stringency measures in
several countries, and the low uptake of vaccination.


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OEW19-0202052022.pdf (‎1.834Mb)‎


https://apps.who.int/iris/handle/10665/354215

 

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WEEKLY BULLETIN ON OUTBREAKS
AND OTHER EMERGENCIES

Week 20: 9 – 15 May 2022
Data as reported by: 17:00; 15 May 2022
...

Coronavirus disease 2019 African region

8 458 483 Cases
171 153 Deaths
2.0% CFR

EVENT DESCRIPTION

The number of weekly COVID-19 cases has risen for the fourth
consecutive week as the COVID-19 pandemic continues to
propagate in the African region. In the past week (week ending
15 May 2022), the number of new confirmed COVID-19 cases
increased from 50 238 to 53 548, marking a 6.6% week-on-week
increase. The majority of new cases (99%, n= 53 548) were
reported from South Africa (50 405), Eswatini (603), Zimbabwe
(591), Burundi (364), and Seychelles (277). The upward trend of
cases reported from South Africa persisted for the fourth straight
week while Eswatini and Namibia have also shown an upward
trend in the number of weekly cases in the past two weeks.
COVID-19 associated deaths also increased by 39% over the
past week in the African region with a total of 245 new deaths
reported compared to 176 in the previous week. All new deaths
were reported from seven countries namely, South Africa (232),
Zimbabwe (5), Eswatini (3), Malawi (2), Namibia (2), Niger (1),
and Seychelles (1).

Cumulatively, a total of 8.45 million cases with 171 153 deaths
(case fatality ratio 2.0%) have been recorded in the WHO African
region since the onset of the pandemic. The WHO African region
which includes Sub-Saharan Africa and Algeria accounts of
71.8% and 67.5% of the African continent’s cumulative 11.78
million cases and 253 405 deaths respectively reported since the
onset of the pandemic.

South Africa is the only country currently in resurgence following
the sustained surge in the number of cases reported in the
country over the past four weeks. Other countries on high alert
include Burundi and Eswatini as they have recently experienced
increased incidence of COVID-19 in recent weeks. Seychelles
and Mauritius remain have a very high incidence considering the
number of cases per population.

The recent surge in cases is mainly driven by the resurgence of
cases in South Africa and accounts for 94.1% of the new cases
and 94.7% of the new deaths reported in the past week. New cases
increased for the fourth consecutive week in South Africa with an
11% week-on-week rise in the past week. Deaths also rose by
45% (from 160 to 232). The countries fifth wave is driven by the
highly transmissible BA.4 and BA.5 sub-lineages of the SARSCoV-2
Omicron variant. Although all provinces in the country
are reporting an increase weekly incidence of COVID-19 cases,
Gauteng province remains at the epi-centre of the pandemic and
reported the highest number of cases in the past week.

SITUATION INTERPRETATION

The surge in cases in the region has continued for the fourth
consecutive week, driven by the transmission of the BA.4 and
BA.5 sub-lineages of the Omicron variant in South Africa. The
country has been classified as being in resurgence and the
national authorities last week declared the onset of the fifth
wave of the pandemic in South Africa. As observed in the
previous wave driven by the parent Omicron variant, there is a
decoupling of the number of admissions and deaths as they are
not increasing at the same rate as observed with the COVID-19
cases. Nonetheless, close monitoring of trends and the number
of hospitalizations is essential should the epidemiological outlook
vary considerably. Furthermore, countries in the region, especially
those neighbouring South Africa, should intensify preparedness
measures including early warning surveillance systems to detect
COVID-19 cases promptly, risk communication and community
engagement, and vaccination of vulnerable populations.

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https://apps.who.int/iris/handle/10665/354389

 

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WEEKLY BULLETIN ON OUTBREAKS
AND OTHER EMERGENCIES

Week 21: 16 – 22 May 2022
Data as reported by: 17:00; 22 May 2022
...

Coronavirus disease 2019 African region

8 506 671 Cases
171 386 Deaths
2.0% CFR

EVENT DESCRIPTION

COVID-19 cases and deaths decreased in the African region
following four consecutive weeks of increasing trend. In the past
week (week ending 22 May 2022), a total of 42 854 new cases
were reported compared to 56 601 in the preceding week (week
ending 15 May 2022), marking a 24% week-on-week decrease.
The majority of new cases (96%, n= 40 943) were reported from
South Africa (38 079), Zimbabwe (1 471), Seychelles (524),
Eswatini (445), and Ethiopia (424).

COVID-19 associated deaths also decreased by 20% over the
past week in the African region with a total of 203 new deaths
reported compared to 254 in the preceding week. All new deaths
were reported from ten countries, namely South Africa (178),
Zimbabwe (12), Ethiopia (2), Kenya (2), Malawi (2), Mozambique
(2), Uganda (2), Eswatini (1), Mali (1), and Namibia (1).
Cumulatively, 8.5 million cases with 171 386 deaths (case fatality
ratio 2.0%) have been recorded in the WHO African region
since the onset of the pandemic. The WHO African region which
includes Sub-Saharan Africa and Algeria accounts for 71.9% and
67.6% of the African continent’s cumulative 11.83 million cases
and 253 714 deaths respectively reported since the onset of the
pandemic.

South Africa remains the only country currently in a resurgence in
the African region, although the country reported its first decline
in the number of new cases in the past week following a persistent
four-week increase. Five countries – Eswatini, Kenya, Mauritania,
Namibia, and Zimbabwe – are on high alert as they have recently
experienced an uptick in the incidence of COVID-19 over the past
two weeks. Seychelles and Mauritius have a very high incidence
considering the number of COVID-19 cases per unit population.
The recent increase in cases largely reported from Southern
African countries has been linked to the continued circulation
of the highly transmissible BA.4 and BA.5 sub-lineages of the
SARS-CoV-2 Omicron variant.

SITUATION INTERPRETATION

It is too early to determine whether the fifth wave has peaked,
however, it is anticipated the number of cases reported during
the fifth wave will be far lower than those recorded during earlier
waves due to high seroprevalence among the African population.
Caution also needs to be exercised as ongoing transmission of
the SARS-CoV-2 virus could result to emergence of new variants
with characteristics that could challenge current response efforts.
All countries in the region are advised to enhance pandemic
response measures including early warning surveillance, risk
communication and community engagement, and vaccination of
vulnerable populations.

https://apps.who.int/iris/bitstream/handle/10665/354552/OEW21-1622052022.pdf

https://www.afro.who.int/countries/...d-emergencies-bulletin-week-21-16-22-may-2022

 

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WEEKLY BULLETIN ON OUTBREAKS
AND OTHER EMERGENCIES

Week 22 : 23 - 29 May 2022
Data as reported by: 17:00; 29 May 2022
...

Coronavirus disease 2019 African region

8 541 238 Cases
171 623 Deaths
2.0% CFR

EVENT DESCRIPTION

COVID-19 cases decreased in the African region for the second
week following four consecutive weeks of increasing trend. In the
past week (week ending 29 May 2022), a total of 29 755 new
cases were reported compared to 46 908 in the preceding week
(week ending 22 May 2022), marking a 37% week-on-week
decrease. The majority of new cases (96%, n= 40 943) were
reported from South Africa (24 095), Zimbabwe (1 257), Ethiopia
(973), Namibia (775), and Kenya (526).

COVID-19 associated deaths increased by 10% over the past
week in the African region with a total of 230 new deaths reported
compared to 209 in the preceding week. All new deaths were
reported from seven countries, namely South Africa (213),
Zimbabwe (5), Eswatini (5), Madagascar (2), Malawi (2), Namibia
(2), and Ethiopia (1).

Cumulatively, 8.5 million cases with 171 623 deaths (case fatality
ratio 2.0%) have been recorded in the WHO African region
since the onset of the pandemic. The WHO African region which
includes Sub-Saharan Africa and Algeria accounts for 71.9% and
67.6% of the African continent’s cumulative 11.83 million cases
and 253 980 deaths respectively reported since the onset of the
pandemic.

South Africa has moved out of the resurgence phase, with cases
decreasing for the past two consecutive weeks. Six countries
– Angola, Cape Verde, Cote d’Ivoire, Ethiopia, Eswatini, and
Namibia - have recently experienced an uptick in the incidence
of COVID-19 over the past two weeks. Namibia is undergoing
a resurgence of the pandemic which is largely driven by SARSCoV-2
Omicron variant.

The recent increase in cases in some countries in the Southern
African countries has been linked to the continued circulation
of the highly transmissible BA.4 and BA.5 sub-lineages of the
SARS-CoV-2 Omicron variant.

SITUATION INTERPRETATION

The fifth wave seems to have peaked following decrease in cases
in South Africa. However, the situation across the African region
remains variable, with some countries experiencing a recent
uptick in cases. The recent slight increase in deaths is anticipated
as COVID-19 deaths normally lag behind cases by a few weeks.
Recent projections showed that deaths in 2022 is expected to
be far lower than the previous years. However, caution must be
exercised as new or emerging variants of the SARS-CoV-2 virus
could alter the current trajectory of the pandemic. All countries in
the region are advised to enhance pandemic response measures,
including early warning surveillance, risk communication
and community engagement, and vaccination of vulnerable
populations.

...


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WEEKLY BULLETIN ON OUTBREAKS
AND OTHER EMERGENCIES

Week 23 : 30 May - 5 June 2022
Data as reported by: 17:00; 5 June 2022
...

Coronavirus disease 2019 African region

8 575 143 Cases
171 947 Deaths
2.0% CFR

EVENT DESCRIPTION

COVID-19 cases decreased in the African region for the third week
following four consecutive weeks of increasing trend. In the past
week (week ending 5 June 2022), a total of 24 422 new cases
were reported compared to 32 697 in the preceding week (week
ending 29 May 2022), marking a 25% week-on-week decrease.
The majority of new cases (82%, n= 20 112) were reported from
South Africa (14 238), Ethiopia (2 666), Zimbabwe (1 305),
Tanzania (1 060), and Namibia (843).

COVID-19 associated deaths increased modestly by 4% over the
past week in the African region with a total of 241 new deaths
reported compared to 232 in the preceding week. The majority
of new deaths (96%, n= 231) were reported from six countries,
namely South Africa (171), Tanzania (37), Zimbabwe (12), Nigeria
(5), Eswatini (3), and Zambia (3).

Cumulatively, 8.5 million cases with 171 947 deaths (case fatality
ratio 2.0%) have been recorded in the WHO African region since
the onset of the pandemic. The WHO African region, which
includes Sub-Saharan Africa and Algeria, accounts for 72.0% and
67.6% of the African continent’s cumulative 11.9 million cases
and 254 326 deaths respectively reported since the onset of the
pandemic.

No country in the African region is currently experiencing a
resurgence of the COVID-19 pandemic, however, five countries
– Ethiopia, Mauritius, Namibia, Seychelles, and Zimbabwe – are
being closely monitored due to either high incidence or recent
uptick in new cases.

The SARS-CoV-2 Omicron variant remains dominant during
this fifth wave of the pandemic in the African region, with the
highly transmissible BA.4 and BA.5 sub-lineages detected largely
among new cases.

SITUATION INTERPRETATION

The declining trend of cases in South Africa, the country with
the largest burden of COVID-19 in the region, has largely
influenced the regional trajectory. However, some countries
are still experiencing a high incidence or slight uptick in new
cases. The risk for new or emerging variants of the SARS-CoV-2
virus remains, and WHO continue to advise all countries to
enhance pandemic response measures, including early warning
surveillance, risk communication and community engagement,
and vaccination of vulnerable populations.

https://apps.who.int/iris/bitstream/handle/10665/355799/OEW23-300505062022.pdf

https://www.afro.who.int/countries/...ergencies-bulletin-week-23-30-may-5-june-2022

 

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WEEKLY BULLETIN ON OUTBREAKS
AND OTHER EMERGENCIES

Week 26: 20 - 26 June 2022
Data as reported by: 17:00; 26 June 2022
...
Coronavirus disease 2019 African region

8 661 427 Cases
172 546 Deaths
2% CFR

EVENT DESCRIPTION

COVID-19 pandemic in the WHO African region continues to
unfold. In the past week (week ending 26 June 2022), a total
of 21 579 new cases were reported compared to 32 014 in the
preceding week (week ending 19 June 2022), marking a 33%
week-on-week decrease. The majority of new cases (68%,
n= 14 705) were reported from South Africa (6 060), Kenya
(2 874), Ethiopia (2 693), Mauritius (1 557), and Ghana (1 521).
COVID-19-associated deaths decreased by 16% over the past
week in the African region, with a total of 189 new deaths
reported compared to 224 in the preceding week. The majority
of new deaths (92%, n= 173) were reported from six countries,
namely South Africa (136), Zimbabwe (15), Zambia (9), Namibia
(5), Democratic Republic of the Congo (4), and Ethiopia (4).

Cumulatively, 8.6 million cases with 172 546 deaths (case fatality
ratio 2.0%) have been recorded in the WHO African region since
the onset of the pandemic. The WHO African region, which
includes Sub-Saharan Africa and Algeria, accounts for 71.9% and
67.7% of the African continent’s cumulative 12.0 million cases
and 254 998 deaths respectively reported since the onset of the
pandemic.

Botswana is currently experiencing a resurgence of the COVID-19
pandemic, while seven countries – Cape Verde, Ethiopia, Ghana,
Kenya, Madagascar, Mauritius, and Seychelles – are being closely
monitored due to either high incidence or a recent uptick in new
cases.

The SARS-CoV-2 Omicron variant remains dominant in the
African region since the start of the fifth wave of the pandemic
in December 2021, with the highly transmissible BA.4 and BA.5
sub-lineages detected largely among new cases.

More than 225 million people have received at least one dose
of COVID-19 vaccines in the African region as of 26 June 2022,
with 169 million being fully vaccinated. The regional population
coverage for at least one dose and fully vaccinated is at 20%
and 14.9% respectively. Although the coverage varies across the
region, two countries - Mauritius and Seychelles – have reached
the 70% target set by WHO followed closely by Rwanda (67%)
and Botswana (64%). Nearly half of all health workers and people
aged 6 years and older are now fully vaccinated in 31 countries
in the region.

SITUATION INTERPRETATION

Although a resurgence of the pandemic is ongoing in Botswana
and slight upsurges have been reported from some countries,
overall case numbers remain modest compare to previous
waves of the pandemic. Hospitalization and death trends remain
relatively stable and low, due in part to incremental gains being
made for increasing vaccination uptake, particularly among
vulnerable population. However, these upsurges indicates that the
risk of new infection and spread of the disease persists. National
authorities need to continue to monitor trends, investigate new
clusters swiftly, and implement risk-based public health response
measures, including inc
...
https://apps.who.int/iris/bitstream/handle/10665/358807/OEW26-2026062022.pdf

https://www.afro.who.int/health-topics/disease-outbreaks/outbreaks-and-other-emergencies-updates

 

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WEEKLY BULLETIN ON OUTBREAKS
AND OTHER EMERGENCIES

Week 27: 27 June - 3 July 2022
Data as reported by: 17:00; 3 July 2022
...

Coronavirus disease 2019 African region

8 674 518 Cases
172 301 Deaths
2.0% CFR

EVENT DESCRIPTION

COVID-19 cases continue to decrease in the WHO African region
for the third consecutive week following as the most recent surge
of cases continues to abate. In the past week (week ending 3
July 2022), a total of 16 338 new cases were reported compared
to 25 892 in the preceding week (week ending 26 June 2022),
marking a 37% week-on-week decrease. The majority of new
cases (49%, n= 16 338) were reported from South Africa (2739),
Kenya (2216), Ethiopia (1911), Mauritania (824), and Madagascar
(372).

COVID-19 associated deaths decreased by 44% over the past
week in the African region with a total of 118 new deaths reported
compared to 210 in the preceding week. The majority of new
deaths (83%, n= 91) were reported from six countries, namely
South Africa (50), Ethiopia (12), Kenya (7), Zambia (5), and
Madagascar (3).

Cumulatively, 8.7 million cases with 172 706 deaths (case fatality
ratio 2.0%) have been recorded in the WHO African region since
the onset of the pandemic. The WHO African region, which
includes Sub-Saharan Africa and Algeria, accounts for 71.8%
and 68.1% of the African continent’s cumulative 12 million cases
and 258 555 deaths respectively reported since the onset of the
pandemic.

Botswana is the only country in the African region that is currently
experiencing a resurgence of the COVID-19 pandemic, however,
six countries – Cape Verde, Ghana, Kenya, Madagascar, Tanzania,
Equatorial Guinea – are being closely monitored due to either
high incidence or recent uptick in new cases.

The SARS-CoV-2 Omicron variant remains dominant in the
African region since the start of fifth wave of the pandemic in
December 2021. The BA.4 and BA.5 sub-lineages of the SARSCoV-2
Omicron variant continues to spread geographically as
they have now been detected in 13 countries in the WHO African
region.

SITUATION INTERPRETATION

The pandemic situation in the WHO African region continues to
improve as the number of cases reported weekly continue to
decline and the hospitalizations and deaths continue to remain
low. This regional picture is mainly driven by the sustained
decrease of cases reported from Southern Africa. However, some
countries have in recent weeks reported spikes in the number
of cases reported which calls for continued vigilance, especially
as the BA.4 and BA.5 sub-lineages of the SARS-CoV-2 Omicron
variant continues to spread geographically. The number of
admissions, ICU hospitalizations and deaths have continued to
remain low as had been observed in the waves and upsurges
attributed to the SARS-CoV-2 Omicron variant.

Though the continued improving pandemic situation in the region
is encouraging, it is however important to mention that diagnostic
and genomic testing rates have declined in recent months. Thus,
it remains imperative that countries continue to strengthen early
warning systems to promptly detect, investigate and monitor
identified cases. Furthermore, capacities in all aspects of
pandemic response including vaccination, risk communication
and community engagement, infection prevention and control
and case management are enhanced to cope with any potential surge
in cases.

https://apps.who.int/iris/bitstream/handle/10665/359281/OEW27-270603072022.pdf

https://www.afro.who.int/health-topics/disease-outbreaks/outbreaks-and-other-emergencies-updates

 

[Pathfinder]

WEEKLY BULLETIN ON OUTBREAKS
AND OTHER EMERGENCIES

Week 33: 8 - 14 August 2022
Data as reported by: 17:00; 14 August 2022
...

COVID-19 African region

8 763 459 cases
173 091 Deaths
2.0% CFR

EVENT DESCRIPTION

The WHO African region has reported since the beginning of the
pandemic a total of 8 763 459 laboratory-confirmed COVID-19
cases as of August 14 2022, of which (16.7%) 1 466 226 have
been recorded since the beginning of 2022. The Southern and
East Africa sub-regions account for 82 percent (7.2 million) of all
cases reported in the AFRO region.

Since the fifth wave of COVID-19 reached its peak around the
mid-May 2022, the African region has observed a declining
incidence to date. A total of 4 287 confirmed cases were reported
in the AFRO region in past seven days (ending 14 August).
Considering, the 27 countries that have complete reports for the
last two epidemiological weeks (01-07 August and 08-14 August
2022), the incidence has reduced by an additional 26% following
the 21% decrease from the previous 7 days (25-31 July 2022).
South Africa (n=1 293, 30%), Nigeria (n=635, 15%), Algeria
(n=612, 14%), Cote d’Ivoire (n=380, 9%), and Burundi (n=240,
6%), are the five countries accounting for 74% of the 4 287 new
cases recorded in the last 7 days.

Since the start of the pandemic, the Central Africa sub-region has
reported a total of 380 120 (4%) cases, including 59 845 since
January of this year, and 261 cases in the last 7 days (08-14
August 2022). Burundi has been seeing a surge over the past
weeks, but the number of new cases decreased by 84% last week
compared to the previous week. Cameroon has been placed on
alert status because the number of new cases each week jumped
by 173% in the previous week.

Countries in the East Africa sub-region have reported 1 570
129 cases (18%) since the beginning of the pandemic, of which
368 726 cases occurred in 2022 and 565 cases were reported
last week, a decrease of 87% from the previous week (4 204).
Tanzania is undergoing a resurgence for the third consecutive
week, despite signs of progress following a 37% decrease in
weekly new cases in week that ended on 7 August 2022.

In the Northern African countries, Algeria has reported 612 news
cases in the last 7 days, compared to 800 the week prior. This
is a 24% decrease. Countries in the Southern Africa sub-region
have reported 5 613 887 (64%) cases since the beginning of
the pandemic, of which 879 731 were reported in the current
year and 1 536 in the last week after a 34% decrease from the
previous week’s number of reported cases (2 345).

West African countries account for 10.6% (930 457 cases) of all
cases recorded in the Africa region; with 146 570 cases reported
thus far in 2022; 1 313 cases were reported last week, a 34%
decrease from the previous week. Mozambique and Niger have
reported an increase in the number of weekly new COVID-19
cases.

The following countries’ situation is closely monitored: Burundi,
which is still experiencing a resurgence; Tanzania, which is now
out of resurgence and is now classified among the countries
on ALERT with Algeria, Cameroon, Equatorial Guinea, Eritrea,
Gabon, Mozambique, Nigeria, Mauritius, and Senegal.

In the AFRO region, the number of reported COVID-19 fatalities is
now at 173 091 since the beginning of the pandemic. The number
of deaths reported weekly continue to decrease (42%), with 15
new COVID-19 related deaths reported in the last 7 days compared
to 26 cases reported during the previous 7 days. The majority of
deaths (53%) in the past 7 days were reported in Zimbabwe and
Cote d’Ivoire, each with four deaths.

Geographical variation in SARS-CoV-2 strains in Africa has not
changed significantly since June 2022. Recent analysis of 644
sequences conducted by GISAID on August 08 2022 revealed that
99% were Omicron (BA.4 and BA.5) and 1% were Delta variants,
suggesting that the region is dominated by Omicron variants.

SITUATION INTERPRETATION

The trends in COVID-19 new cases and associated deaths
have been decreasing in the AFRO region with many countries
reporting very low hospital admission and fatality rates and this
could indicate a new phase transitioning out of the pandemic
alert phase. Beside the experience and better coordination of
public health emergency response interventions, potential factors
influencing this transition could include the non-aggressiveness
of the COVID-19 Omicron variant and hybrid immunity in the
individuals two years after the pandemic started.

WHO, in collaboration with member states and other health
partners are maintaining their vigilance over the COVID-19
resurgence indicators while also planning the future of COVID-19
surveillance and response using a contextualized approach that
will see it integrated into existing surveillance programmes.

https://apps.who.int/iris/bitstream/handle/10665/361771/OEW33-0814082022.pdf

 

[Pathfinder]

WEEKLY BULLETIN ON OUTBREAKS
AND OTHER EMERGENCIES

Week 34: 15 - 21 August 2022
Data as reported by: 17:00; 21 August 2022
...

COVID-19 African region

8 775 416 cases
173 202 Deaths
2.0% CFR

EVEN DESCRIPTION

In the last 7 days (ending 21 August 2022), 4 728 new laboratory
confirmed COVID-19 cases and 92 related deaths were reported
in the WHO African region, raising the total number of confirmed
cases to 8 775 416 and fatalities to 173 202, with a case fatality
ratio (CFR) remaining at 2.0%. Of the 92 deaths reported during
the week ending on 21 August 2022, South Africa accounts for
84%, some of which were reported as a backlog for the last two
weeks. The rest of the COVID-19 associated deaths reported in
the last 7 days occurred in Zimbabwe (4), Cote d’Ivoire (2), Niger
(1), and Togo (1).

The numbers of confirmed COVID-19 cases and related deaths
reported continue to decline weekly in all the sub-regions. The
decline in incidence of lab-confirmed cases was greatest in the
East Africa sub-region (80%) and Central Africa (48%).

SITUATION INTERPRETATION

Except for a few countries that reported an increase, weekly new
cases declined by more than 50% in the past seven days. Despite
the backlog of fatalities reported by South Africa, the AFRO region
continues to see falling trends in COVID-19 new cases and related
deaths. Comorbidities and old age remain the major contributors
to hospital admissions and mortality.

However, there are certain limits in interpreting the given
COVID-19 estimates for the last 7 days because several countries
update their data progressively. Another factor to consider is the
shift in COVID-19 screening and testing procedures as many
people become asymptomatic and hence go undetected since the
prevalent and highly transmissible Omicron variant has emerged.
The World Health Organization continues to assist Member States
in keeping a close watch on the COVID-19 resurgence indicators
and recommends the establishment of Public Health Emergencies
Operation Centres at the sub-national level.

https://apps.who.int/iris/bitstream/handle/10665/362017/OEW34-1521082022.pdf

 

[Pathfinder]

WEEKLY BULLETIN ON OUTBREAKS
AND OTHER EMERGENCIES

Week 35: 22 - 28 August 2022
Data as reported by: 17:00; 28 August 2022
...

COVID-19 African region

8 781 856 cases
173 244 Deaths
2.0% CFR

EVENT DESCRIPTION

A total of 4 218 new COVID-19 infections were reported in the
African region in the week ending August 28, showing a 13%
decline (from 4 853 to 4 218 new cases) as compared to data
from the previous week (ending August 21) for the 25 countries
with available complete data and reports.

Eight countries have reported an increase in the number of weekly
new cases compared to the previous week, including Zambia
(5%), Togo (17%), Kenya (18%), Nigeria (26%), Uganda (31%),
Niger (97%), Chad (136%), and Mali (333%).South Africa 35%
(1 480) Nigeria 12% (495), Algeria 9% (389), Zambia 6% (263),
and Cote d’Ivoire 4% (186) accounted for the majority (67%) of
the 4 218 new cases recorded this week.

The weekly number of COVID-19-related deaths continues to fall,
with 26 fatalities recorded in the last seven days, down from 98
in the preceding seven days. South Africa recorded 18 deaths and
this was followed by Eswatini (3), Kenya (1), Mozambique (1),
Nigeria (1), Uganda (1), and Zimbabwe (1). In the week ending
August 21 2022, Zimbabwe in the Southern Africa subregion had
a two-weeks lag CFR of 3.5%, while the subregional average was
below 1.0%.

As of 28 August 2022, there have been more than 8 781 856
laboratory-confirmed cases of COVID-19 recorded in the WHO
AFRO region since the pandemic began in 2020, with at least
173 244 deaths, yielding a case fatality ratio of 2%.

Since the start of the epidemic, the following five nations have
reported the highest number of deaths attributable to COVID-19:
South Africa accounted for 102 084 fatalities (59%) while
Ethiopia accounted for 7 571 (4%), Algeria for 6 878 (4%), Kenya
for 5 674 (3%) and Zimbabwe for 5 593 (3%).

The five countries with the highest number of COVID-19-related
deaths per million population are Seychelles (469 675 cases/
million population), Mauritius (200 994 cases/million population),
Botswana (133 034 cases/million population), South Africa
(68 502 cases/million population), and Namibia (66 779 cases/
million population).

SITUATION INTERPRETATION

Since the fifth wave’s peak in May 2022, incidence and death
attributable to new COVID-19 cases have continued to drop
throughout the African region. The current number of weekly
reported new cases is the lowest of the previous four waves and
is comparable to the number of cases reported in April 2020, at
the start of the epidemic.

No country in the region is experiencing a resurgence, although
caution is still essential since the aggregated national COVID-19
figures may not necessarily reflect the classification situation at
sub-national levels, where a resurgence of new cases may occur.
Several countries, including Cameroon, Chad, Ghana, Mali, and
Niger, require close monitoring and investigation since the weekly
incidence of COVID-19 has increased for four consecutive weeks.
In the region, eight countries are now listed to be in the ALERT
mode: Algeria, Burundi, Cameroon, Gambia, Liberia, Niger,
Seychelles, and Tanzania.

WHO encourages its Member States to keep a careful check on
any indicators of a resurgence of COVID-19, while also integrating
COVID-19 surveillance into the standard national surveillance
system for diseases with epidemic and pandemic potential.

https://apps.who.int/iris/bitstream/handle/10665/362112/OEW35-2228082022.pdf

 

[Pathfinder]

WEEKLY BULLETIN ON OUTBREAKS
AND OTHER EMERGENCIES

Week 36: 29 August - 4 September 2022
Data as reported by: 17:00; 4 September 2022
...

COVID-19 African region

8 790 770 cases
173 296 Deaths
2.0% CFR

EVENT DESCRIPTION

COVID-19 has been confirmed in 8 790 770 people in the
WHO African region from the beginning of the pandemic until
September 4 2022. The region reported a total of 5 348 384
cases last year (2021) and 1 532 617 cases have been reported
from January 2022 to 4 September, with August 2022 having
the lowest number of laboratory-confirmed cases so far this
year at 40 958. Last week (ending 4 September), 26 countries
in the region reported 3 683 new COVID-19 cases, compared to
7 171 in the previous week (ending 28 August) for 38 reporting
countries, suggesting a 13% week-on-week reduction.
Ten countries have shown an increase in the number of weekly
new cases compared to the previous week, including GuineaBissau
(3 289%), Lesotho (500%), Mali (358%), Democratic
Republic of Congo (67%), Cameroon (55%), Chad (42%),
Madagascar (27%), Rwanda (22%), Zambia (12%), and Sao
Tome and Principe (6%).

When considering the number of new COVID-19 cases in relation
to the total population, the islands of Seychelles and Mauritius
have a very high incidence. However, the countries have adequate
resources to deal with the current situation. In Cameroon, the
number of patients hospitalized for COVID-19 in Cameroon
has increased slightly in the past two weeks, as the country
experiences a surge. Nonetheless, hospital and intensive care
unit admissions continue to decline in most countries that have
seen rises in recent weeks.

The following five countries accounted for 75% of the 3 683
new cases reported in the last 7 days: South Africa 40% (1 455),
Nigeria 12% (460), Mali 8% (298), Zambia 8% (295), and Algeria
7% (249).

The total number of COVID-19 associated deaths currently
stands at 173 296 with a case fatality rate of 2% in the region.
Considering the 26 reporting countries, 34 new fatalities occurred
in the last 7 days, including 24 (71%) in South Africa, 3 (9%)
in Zimbabwe, and 2 (6%) in Cote d’Ivoire. In the previous week
(ending 28 August 2022), 36 new deaths associated to COVID-10
were reported in the WHO African region.

Since the start of the epidemic, the following five nations have
reported the highest cumulative number of deaths attributable to
COVID-10: South Africa accounted for 102 108 fatalities (59%)
while Ethiopia accounted for 7 572 (4%), Algeria for 6 879 (4%),
Kenya for 5 674 (3%) and Zimbabwe for 5 596 (3%).

The five countries with the highest number of COVID-19-
related deaths per million populations are Seychelles (472 020),
Mauritius (204 076), Botswana (133 034), South Africa (68 527),
and Namibia (66 811).

SITUATION INTERPRETATION

For the sixth week in a row, weekly COVID-19 incidence has
continued to decrease across African region, indicating that the
pandemic situation is stabilizing in many African countries.
In the previous week, only Niger has experienced a resurgence,
while Gambia, Cameroon, Chad, Liberia, Mali, Mauritius, and
Seychelles are on full alert. WHO is engaged in developing a
transition framework with key specific recommendations to
accompany the member states in developing and implementing
response plans adapted to the current dynamic of the pandemic.
WHO also recommends that Member States integrate COVID-19
vaccination with other scheduled route immunization programs
at regular intervals in order to increase vaccination uptake in
countries.

https://apps.who.int/iris/bitstream/handle/10665/362389/OEW36-290804092022.pdf

 

[Pathfinder]

WEEKLY BULLETIN ON OUTBREAKS
AND OTHER EMERGENCIES

Week 43: 17 - 23 October 2022
Data as reported by: 17:00; 23 October 2022
...

COVID-19 African region

8 834 593 cases
173 601 Deaths
2.0% CFR

EVENT DESCRIPTION

Since the first case of COVID-19 was notified in the WHO African
Region until 23 October 2022, 8 834 593 laboratory confirmed
cases and 173 601 related COVID-19 fatalities have been reported,
resulting in an overall case fatality rate of 2.0%. In total, 92% (8
117 586) of those who were affected recovered from the disease.
Cumulatively, countries registering the highest number of deaths
include: South Africa 102 257 (59% of all deaths), Ethiopia 7 572
(4%), Algeria 6 881 (4%), Kenya 5 678 (3%), and Zimbabwe 5
606 (3%).

Since the recent COVID-19 resurgence peak around mid-May
2022, the weekly number of newly reported COVID-19 cases in
the African region observed a consistent decline until the week
ending 16 October 2022. This was followed by a significant
increase (30%) of new weekly cases mainly due to Namibia
reporting a backlog of 3 064 reinfection cases.

A total of 3 007 confirmed cases were reported in the AFRO region
in past seven days (ending 23 October 2022) considering reports
from 18 countries; while 30 countries reported 7 575 COVID-19
cases in the previous 7 days (ending on 16 October). Of the 3 007
new cases reported in the last 7 days, South Africa accounted for
2 017 (67%), followed by Kenya 171 (6%), and Nigeria 106 (4%).
Seychelles and Ghana are still on ALERT and close monitoring.

The number of new COVID-19-related deaths remain low, with
15 new COVID-19 deaths recorded in the last 7 days (ending on
23 October), compared to 59 in the previous week (ending on 16
October). Of these COVID-19 deaths reported in the last 7 days,
11 (73%) occurred in South Africa.

As the majority of COVID-19 cases are mild to moderate and
respond to home-based treatment,the number of hospital
admissions for related cases is extremely low throughout the
region, and no country has reported a burden on hospital capacity
in recent weeks.

SITUATION INTERPRETATION

The COVID-19 situation in the region is steady, with the majority
of countries continuing to observe a reduction in the incidence,
hospitalization, and mortality rates associated with COVID-19.
The increasing number of reported cases in Seychelles, Kenya
and Eswatini need active monitoring and investigation to identify
the key drivers and respond appropriately to contain the spread.
However, there has been no evidence of strain on healthcare
systems in these countries as most cases are following homebase care
As many countries have demonstrated the capacity to handle
sudden surges of new COVID-19 cases, the World Health
Organization and other key partners continue to support the
Member States in monitoring the COVID-19 pandemic evolution.
...
https://apps.who.int/iris/bitstream/...1723102022.pdf

 

[Pathfinder]

WEEKLY BULLETIN ON OUTBREAKS
AND OTHER EMERGENCIES

Week 46: 7 - 13 November 2022
Data as reported by: 17:00; 13 November 2022
...

COVID-19 African region

8 856 547 cases
173 737 Deaths
2.0% CFR

EVENT DESCRIPTION

As of 14 November 2022, a total of 8 856 547 laboratory
confirmed cases and 173 737 related COVID-19 fatalities have
been reported in the WHO African region since the beginning
of pandemic, resulting in an overall case fatality rate of 2.0%. It
is estimated that 92% (8 132 754) of individuals infected fully
recovered from the infection. Five countries have reported the
highest cumulative caseload: South Africa 4 033 182 (45.5%),
Ethiopia 494 185 (5.6%), Kenya 340 431 (3.8%), Zambia 333
685 (3.8%), and Botswana 326 344 (3.7%).

The following five countries reported the highest number of
cumulative deaths: South Africa 102 371 (59.0% of all deaths),
Ethiopia 7 572 (4.4%), Algeria 6 881 (4.0%), Kenya 5 680 (3.3%),
Zimbabwe 5 606 (3.2%)

A total of 4 518 confirmed cases were reported in the AFRO region
in past seven days (ending 13 November 2022) considering
reports from 16 countries; while 32 countries reported 5 901
COVID-19 cases in the previous 7 days (ending on 06 November
2022). Of the new cases reported in the last 7 days, South Africa
accounted for 3 240 (72%), Kenya 675 (15%), and Ethiopia 143
(3%).

Since mid-May 2022, the region has seen a progressive decline
in the number of newly reported cases, although the last three
weeks (from 24 October to 13 November) have been characterised
by a plateauing pattern. When the number of COVID-19 cases
for the 16 countries that have fully reported in the last 7 days
(ending 13 November) is compared over the previous two weeks
(week ending on 6 November and week ending on 13 November),
an increase of 42% is observed (from 3 183 to 4 518). Three
countries have reported a consistent rise over the past four
consecutive weeks and are placed on alert for close monitoring:
Kenya, the Democratic Republic of Congo, and Mauritius.

In Kenya, the weekly new COVID-19 laboratory-confirmed cases
soared by 754% over the weeks of 10-16 October and 7-13
November, from 79 to 675. During the same time periods, the
number of COVID-19 hospital admissions surged from one
admission then to 26 cases currently admitted. After more than
six weeks without any COVID-19-related deaths, two deaths have
been recorded in the last week (ending 13 November). Nairobi City
and Lamu counties have recorded the highest COVID-19 attack
rates, with 12.3 and 5.6 per 100 000 populations, respectively,
compared to the national attack rate of 1.3 per 100 000.

In Mauritus, between the week ending 30 October and the week
ending 6 November, the number of newly reported COVID-19
cases increased by 61%, from 1 188 (incidence rate of 94 per
100 000 populations) to 1 908 (incidence rate of 151 per 100 000
populations).

The number of new COVID-19-related deaths remain low, with
15 new COVID-19 deaths recorded in the last 7 days (ending on
23 October), compared to 59 in the previous week (ending on
16 October). The hospital daily average bed occupancy increased
from 18 (rate of 2.3%) to 28 (rate of 3.2%) in the same periods
and no COVID-19 related deaths were observed.

Ten additional COVID-19-related fatalities were recorded in the
region in the past week (ending November 13), compared to 59.
(ending 6 November). The majority of the fatalities occurred in
South Africa (80%), while just two occurred in Kenya (20%).

As the majority of COVID-19 cases are mild to moderate and
respond to home-based treatment, the number of hospital
admissions for related cases is extremely low throughout the
region, and no country has reported any strain on hospital
capacity in the last week of reporting.

Countries that have not reported new confirmed cases within the
last 28 days: Botswana (44 days), Zimbabwe (30 days), Angola
(70 days), Lesotho (66 days), Congo (Republic of) (113 days),
Burkina Faso (57 days), Guinea-Bissau (43 days), however there
is no official report indicating zero confirmed cases in these
districts.

SITUATION INTERPRETATION

The increasing COVID-19 case incidence in a few countries (DRC,
Kenya, and Mauritius) in the WHO African region showing signs
of a new wave is particularly concerning and necessitates vigilant
surveillance. In recent weeks, the situation in Seychelles has
been improving. New COVID-19 deaths and CFRs remain low
throughout the region, and no country is currently experiencing a
resurgence or are on high alert. Any sustained two-week upticks
or large jumps in new case incidence are being monitored very
closely and investigated for signs of a new wave or variant of
concern. The World Health Organization encourages all Member
States to sustain the continual monitoring of the pandemic
situation using subnational-level early warning systems that have
been demonstrated to be effective in many countries.
...
https://apps.who.int/iris/bitstream/handle/10665/364584/OEW46-0713112022.pdf

 

[Pathfinder]

WEEKLY BULLETIN ON OUTBREAKS
AND OTHER EMERGENCIES

Week 50: 5 - 11 December 2022
Data as reported by: 17:00; 11 December 2022
...

COVID-19 WHO African region

8 894 184 cases
173 981 Deaths
2.0% CFR


EVENT DESCRIPTION

As of 4 December 2022, a total of 8 894 184 laboratory-confirmed
cases and 173 981 related COVID-19 fatalities have been reported
in the WHO African region (AFRO) since the beginning of the
pandemic, resulting in an overall case fatality rate of 2.0%. It
is estimated that 92% (8 191 052) of individuals infected fully
recovered from the disease. Cumulatively, five countries have
reported the highest number of cases: South Africa 4 042 912
(45.5%), Ethiopia 494 786 (5.6%), Kenya 341 924 (3.8%),
Zambia 333 746 (3.8%), and Botswana 327 061 (3.7%).

At the same time, the following five countries have cumulatively
reported the highest number of deaths: South Africa 102 550
(59.0% of all deaths), Ethiopia 7 572 (4.4%), Algeria 6 881
(4.0%), Kenya 5 684 (3.3%), and Zimbabwe 5 622 (3.2%).
A total of 8 498 confirmed cases were reported in AFRO during
epi week 48 (ending 4 December 2022) based on data submitted
from 27 countries; while 33 countries reported 11 074 COVID-19
cases in epi week 47 (ending on 27 November).

Of the new cases reported in epi week 48, Mauritius accounted
for 3 831 (45%), followed by South Africa 1 973 (23%), Kenya
428 (5%), Ethiopia 263 (3%), and the Democratic Republic of the
Congo 262 (3%).

Although the Central African sub-region reported a 6% increase
in the number of new weekly cases (from 495 to 523) and the
North African sub-region reported a 21% increase (from 38 to
46) between epi week and epi week 48, the region as a whole
saw a 23% reduction (from 11 074 to 8 498 new cases reported).
Most of the sub regions reported a reduction in cases: 16% in
the East African region, 35% in the Southern Africa region, and
by 41% in the West Africa region.

For the past two consecutive weeks (epi weeks 47 and 48), four
(4) of the 27 countries have reported a consistent rise in the
number of new COVID-19 cases. These include; Ethiopia (44%),
Botswana (76%), Madagascar (12%), and Mozambique (11%).
Mauritius and Madagascar are placed on HIGH ALERT due to
the fourth wave of COVID-19 cases currently ongoing in the
countries. Burundi, Cabo Verde, Ethiopia, Kenya, and South
Africa are among the five other countries on ALERT.

The number of new COVID-19-related deaths in the region has
remained low, with 42 recorded in epi week 48 compared to 47
in epi week 47. The majority of fatalities recorded in epi week 48
were reported in South Africa 36 (86%), Mozambique 3 (7%),
and Mauritius 2 (5%).

SITUATION INTERPRETATION

The incidence risk of COVID-19 cases has decreased when
observing the 27 countries that have timely reported new weekly
cases in the WHO African region, with Mauritius experiencing
their fourth wave. Any sustained two-week upticks or large
jumps in new case incidence are being monitored very closely
and investigated for signs of a new wave or variant of concern
in the AFRO region. The probability of COVID-19 new infections
and re-infections remains greater toward the end of the year due
to rising population mobility and high transmissible COVID-19
Omicron sub-variants. The World Health Organization encourages
all Member States to sustain the continual monitoring of the
pandemic situation using subnational-level early warning systems
that have been demonstrated to be effective in many countries.

https://apps.who.int/iris/bitstream/handle/10665/365336/OEW50-0511122022.pdf

 

[Pathfinder]

WEEKLY BULLETIN ON OUTBREAKS
AND OTHER EMERGENCIES

Week 3: 9 to 15 January 2023
Data as reported by: 17:00; 15 January 2023
...

COVID-19 African region

8 927 480 cases
174 074 Deaths
2.0% CFR

EVENT DESCRIPTION

As of 8 January 2023, a total of 8 927 480 laboratory-confirmed
cases and 174 074 related COVID-19 fatalities have been reported
in the WHO African region (AFRO) since the beginning of the
pandemic, resulting in an overall case fatality rate of 2.0%. It
is estimated that 92% (8 211 921) of individuals infected fully
recovered from the disease.

Cumulatively, five countries have reported the highest number of
cases: South Africa 4 051 266 (45.4%), Ethiopia 498 977 (5.6%),
Kenya 342 599 (3.8%), Zambia 334 641 (3.8%), and Botswana
328 581 (3.7%). Of the 174 074 COVID-19 related deaths reported
in the region since the beginning of the pandemic, the following
five countries have cumulatively reported the highest number of
fatalities: South Africa 102 568 (59.0%), Ethiopia 7 572 (4.4%),
Algeria 6 881 (4.0%), Kenya 5 688 (3.3%), and Zimbabwe 5 635
(3.2%).

An increase of 11% has been observed in the last 7 days with
a total of 5 240 confirmed cases reported in AFRO during epi
week 1 (ending 8 January 2023) based on data submitted from
28 countries; while 32 countries reported 4 768 COVID-19 cases
in epi week 52 (ending on 1 January 2023).

Of the new cases reported in epi week 1, 4 834 (92%) are reported
in the East and Southern African countries including Zambia with
1 063 (20%), followed by Mauritius 1 018 (19%), South Africa
969 (18%), Ethiopia 512 (10%), and Botswana 351 (7%).
Of the 28 countries with complete reports in epi week 1, (54%) 15
have reported an increase from epi week 52: Zambia, Botswana,
Zimbabwe, Burundi, Mozambique, Kenya, DRC, Tanzania,
Uganda, Malawi, Namibia, Ghana, Eswatini, Cote d’Ivoire, and
Benin.

Four countries have sustained consistent rise in the number of
new COVID-19 cases for at least two consecutive recent weeks,
including Zambia, Zimbabwe, Mozambique, and Ghana. Zambia
and Zimbabwe have been added to countries in the ALERT mode
together with Burundi and Ethiopia.

The number of new COVID-19-related deaths in the region has
remained low, with 11 fatalities recorded in epi week 1, with
Zambia and Zimbabwe reporting four deaths each while Ghana,
Namibia, and Tanzania have reported one death each. South Africa
and other countries still have to update their data for the past
two weeks to allow computation of accurate figures on COVID-19
mortality in the region.

Although new COVID-19 cases are being monitored in the African
region but due to low testing rates, the SARS-COV-2 genome
sequencing detection of any new sub-lineages takes longer in the
many countries. The XBB.1.5 Omicron sub-variant has now been
identified in Botswana and South Africa.

SITUATION INTERPRETATION

The incidence of COVID-19 cases has increased in this reporting
week when observing the 28 countries that have timely reported
new weekly cases in the WHO African region, with Burundi,
Ethiopia, Zambia, and Zimbabwe experiencing a sustained twoweek
uptick in new case incidence and are being monitored very
closely for signs of a new wave or variant of concern in the AFRO
region. The recent increase in COVID-19 cases in the Western
Pacific Region, particularly in Japan and China, as well as the
rising incidence of the high transmissible XBB.1.5 COVID-19
Omicron sub-variant in America, urges African countries to
remain vigilant and to have contingency measures in place.
The World Health Organization encourages all Member States to
improve SARS-COV-2 testing, and sequencing efforts to better
understand the circulating variants after submitting complete
genome sequences and associated metadata to a publicly
available database, such as GISAID.

https://apps.who.int/iris/bitstream...EW03-915012023-eng.pdf?sequence=1&isAllowed=y

 

[Pathfinder]

WEEKLY BULLETIN ON OUTBREAKS
AND OTHER EMERGENCIES

Week 5: 23 to 29 January 2023
Data as reported by: 17:00; 29 January 2023
...

COVID-19 African region

8 941 138 cases
174 152 Deaths
2.0% CFR

EVENT DESCRIPTION

Since the declaration of COVID-19 as a public health event of
international concern by the WHO Director General three years
ago, a total of 8 941 138 confirmed cases including 174 152
related fatalities have been reported in the WHO African region,
accounting for an overall case fatality ratio of 2.0%. Ninety-two
percent (8 246 551) of the confirmed cases have fully recovered
from the disease.

Five countries account for the highest number of cumulative
cases: South Africa 4 054 206 (45.3%), Ethiopia 499 420 (5.6%),
Kenya 342 785 (3.8%), Zambia 339 092 (3.8%), and Botswana
329 227 (3.7%). The five countries that have reported the highest
number of cumulative deaths are South Africa 102 595 (59.0%),
Ethiopia 7 572 (4.4%), Algeria 6 881 (4.0%), Kenya 5 688 (3.3%),
and Zimbabwe 5 652 (3.3%).

Comparing the last two epidemiological weeks – epi weeks 3
(ending 22 January 2023) and 2 (ending on 15 January 2023) -,
there was a 9% increase in the number of confirmed COVID-19
cases observed with a total 7 264 cases reported during epi week
3, compared to 6 665 cases reported in epi week 2.

The five countries that accounted for the majority (85%) of
confirmed cases reported during epi week 3 were South Africa 2
419 (39%), Zambia 1 634 (26%), Zimbabwe 738 (12%), Mauritius
513 (8%), and Botswana 289 (5%). The number of new COVID19-
related deaths in the region has remained low compared
to most of the pandemic. Comparing epi weeks 3 (ending 22
January 2023) and 2 (ending on 15 January 2023), was 39%
decline in the number of deaths reported in the region. The 23
deaths reported in epi week 3 were reported from Zimbabwe (8),
South Africa (7), Zambia (3), Botswana (2), Namibia (2), and
Madagascar (1).

Two countries in the region - Zambia and Zimbabwe - are
currently classified as being in resurgence after a sustained surge
in COVID-19 cases and deaths have been observed in the past
three weeks. South Africa, Mozambique, and Lesotho are also
being closely monitored following a sustained rise in the number
of new COVID-19 cases for at least two consecutive recent weeks.
Zimbabwe, the latest country in resurgence, has reported a
consistent increase in the number of new cases for the past four
weeks from 177 in epi week 51 2022 (ending 25 December 2022)
to 738 in epi week 3 2023 (ending 22 January 2023). In addition,
the number of tests performed in epi week 3 dropped from 7
219 in epi week 2 to 7 019 while the test positivity rate (TPR)
increased from 5.4% in epi week 2 to 10.5% in epi week 3 in
Zimbabwe.

Testing rates have significantly declined in the WHO African
region. Comparing the same period last year. New hospitalizations,
ICU admissions and severe presentation of the disease have all
remained low in the region.

WHO has conducted a trend analysis of various COVID-19
response key performance indicators in the region from June
to December 2022. The analysis has revealed a significant
decline in the number of countries conducting the minimum of 5
COVID-19 test per 10 000 populations per week: the proportion
of countries performing well in testing per capita has dropped to
21% in December 2022, from 43% in July 2022. Also, there are
less countries performing genome sequencing of lab-confirmed
SARS-COV-2 specimen, from 98% in August 2022 to 32% in
December 2022.

SITUATION INTERPRETATION

The number of COVID-19 cases reported in the first three weeks
of 2023 was the lowest record in the same period comparing the
past three years. With the detection and the circulation of the
highly transmissible XBB 1.5 and BQ.1.1 subvariants globally, an
increase in international travel in recent weeks pose a considerable
threat of surges in many countries in the region. Thus, African
countries must continue to monitor the evolution of the pandemic
by reinforcing multi-faceted, integrated approaches to COVID-19
surveillance (including representative sentinel populations,
event-based surveillance, human wastewater surveillance,
serosurveillance, and animal-human-environmental surveillance),
targeted sequencing to monitor the evolution of variants of
concern and interest, and by increasing the vaccination coverage
of vulnerable people
...
https://apps.who.int/iris/bitstream/handle/10665/365810/OEW05-232901.pdf