ABSTRACT:
This study assessed the preparedness of Cameroon's International Health Regulations (IHR)-compliant air and maritime Border Health Posts (FHPs) for a potential Mpox epidemic. As a country with strategic air and sea entry points, Cameroon is vulnerable to the importation of infectious diseases like Mpox. The study was conducted at the four IHR-compliant FHPs: Yaoundé-Nsimalen, Douala, and Garoua international airports, and the Autonomous Port of Douala. A preparedness assessment grid, based on WHO technical guides, was administered to FHP heads. Data were analyzed using Excel and R software. Results revealed limited overall preparedness levels across all FHPs. Douala International Airport's FHP scored highest (1.81), while the Douala Autonomous Port's FHP scored lowest (1.18). The dimension of Epidemiological and Laboratory Surveillance scored highest, whereas Response Coordination and Management scored the lowest. Key weaknesses identified included limited access to quarantine facilities, lack of action plans based on risk assessments, insufficient implementation of early warning systems, poor information clarity for travelers, and inadequate medical waste management protocols. In conclusion, the IHR-compliant FHPs in Cameroon are inadequately prepared for an Mpox epidemic. Strengthening is urgently needed across all areas, particularly in response coordination, risk communication, community engagement, and infection prevention and control. A differentiated approach that considers the specificities of each health post is recommended for improvement.