The Impact of Mpox: A Wake-Up Call for Business Resilience
Mpox, a devastating disease, has been wreaking havoc in West and Central Africa, and its recent spread to previously unaffected countries like Burundi, Kenya, Rwanda, and Uganda has sparked global concern. In 2024, the World Health Organization (WHO) took swift action, allocating funds and convening emergency meetings to address this crisis. Despite these efforts, the virus made a worrying comeback in early 2025, with Sierra Leone becoming a hotspot.
The public health response has been robust, with the WHO and Africa Centre for Disease Control (Africa CDC) collaborating under comprehensive plans. However, the economic fallout is undeniable, particularly in the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC), where mpox outbreaks have disrupted supply chains, manufacturing, tourism, and foreign investment.
But here's where it gets controversial: Dr. Isaac Akanko, Medical Director for West & Central Africa at International SOS, argues that businesses must go beyond health compliance and integrate outbreak readiness into their core risk management strategies. He believes that infectious disease outbreaks, like mpox, pose a significant threat to business continuity and supply chains, impacting not just goods but also services and the movement of people.
In an exclusive interview, Dr. Akanko shares his insights on how organizations can prepare for and manage the impact of public health emergencies, protect their workforce, and build long-term resilience. He emphasizes the need for specific disease templates, effective communication, and coordination with local health authorities.
And this is the part most people miss: beyond workforce risks, effective communication and access to medical support are critical gaps that need addressing. Private organizations have a duty of care to guide their employees through these processes, ensuring they have an infectious disease plan linked to their preferred health partners or medical providers.
Dr. Akanko also highlights the importance of health screenings, vaccine accessibility, and support for employees who fall ill. He believes the private sector can partner with government health authorities to strengthen medical centers, providing resources like PPEs and isolation centers to aid outbreak response.
So, what practical steps can organizations take to protect their workers and operations during an mpox outbreak while keeping their businesses running? Dr. Akanko recommends implementing an outbreak-specific response plan, tailored to each disease's transmission patterns. This plan should include clear protocols, escalation procedures, and awareness campaigns, with screening mechanisms in place, especially when cases are reported nearby.
As we navigate these challenging times, it's crucial to recognize that infectious disease outbreaks are not just public health concerns but also significant economic risks. By taking proactive measures and learning from experts like Dr. Akanko, businesses can build resilience and contribute to a healthier, more sustainable future.
