The World Health Organization (WHO) declared the monkeypox outbreak in Africa a global health emergency. A deadlier strain, clade Ib, has spread to four new countries in Africa. It was previously contained in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC).
WHO experts met virtually to discuss the outbreak. They advised Director-General Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus to declare a public health emergency. He announced this decision, calling it a severe situation. The new strain in the eastern DRC and nearby countries is spreading fast.
Tedros stated the monkeypox outbreak is a public health emergency of international concern. WHO gives this status to serious events that may need international help.
Committee Chair Dimie Ogoina said the monkeypox outbreak is just the start. They do not fully understand the burden of monkeypox in Africa. The Africa Centres for Disease Control and Prevention also declared a public health emergency of continental security. This is the first such declaration since 2017.
More than 17,000 mpox cases and 500 deaths have occurred in 13 African countries this year. The DRC has the most cases, with over 14,000. Mpox spreads easily among people and from infected animals. It can spread through close contact and contaminated items. Symptoms include fever, rash, headache, muscle pain, tiredness, and swollen lymph nodes.
US Aids WHO in Tackling Severe MonkeyPox Strain with Vaccines and Support
Mpox has two genetic clades, I and II. Clade II caused the 2022 outbreak, but clade Ib is more severe. WHO said they are facing different outbreaks with varied risks. No clade I cases have been found in the US, but the US is helping WHO and the DRC. The US CDC recommended vaccines for those exposed to or at high risk of mpox.
WHO officials believe the virus can be controlled with proper actions. They called for international cooperation and funding. Vaccines are part of the response, but increased surveillance and research are also needed. WHO has started an Emergency Use Listing for mpox vaccines and developed a response plan needing $15 million. Half a million vaccine doses are in stock, with more expected by the year-end. The DRC and Nigeria will be the first to receive these vaccines.
WHO emphasized that stopping mpox requires multiple approaches. Dr. Maria Van Kerkhove said there is still much uncertainty. She urged for support to understand and control the outbreak. With coordinated efforts, WHO believes they can stop the spread of mpox and save lives.
To read our blog on “WHO announces the end of monkeypox public health emerg.,” click here.
