WHO Declares Global Health Crisis Over Mpox as Outbreak Spreads Across Africa
The World Health Organization (WHO) has declared a global health crisis for the second time in two years due to the disease mpox, following a significant outbreak in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DR Congo) that has now spread to neighboring countries. This announcement was made on Wednesday, rekindling concerns as cases increase in Africa.
Mpox, previously known as monkeypox, is transmitted through close contact and generally presents mild symptoms, though it can be fatal in rare cases. The symptoms typically include flu-like manifestations and rashes characterized by blistering. The WHO's designation as a Public Health Emergency of International Concern (PHEIC) seeks to mobilize a global and coordinated response, enabling easier access to funding for vaccines and treatments.
The current outbreak in DR Congo began with an endemic variant of the virus, but troubling reports indicate a newly identified variant that spreads more easily through close contact has emerged. This variant has already extended its reach to Burundi, Kenya, Rwanda, and Uganda, underscoring the urgent need for an international response.
WHO Director-General Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus emphasized the critical nature of a coordinated global effort in curtailing these outbreaks and preserving lives. Earlier this week, Africa's leading public health entity declared a crisis over mpox on the continent amid alarming statistics. In just this calendar year, over 17,000 suspected mpox cases have been reported, leading to 517 fatalities, marking a 160% increase compared to the same timeframe the previous year. Currently, 13 countries across Africa have reported cases of this disease.
The resurgence of mpox's status as a global health crisis echoes its initial declaration in July 2022 when the disease first gained international attention. Just earlier this year in May, the outbreak corresponding to a different variant had its global health crisis status lifted, only for the situation to worsen dramatically in the following months.
As the health community mobilizes in response to combat this resurgence, the need for rapid action, resources, and public awareness has never been more crucial in the effort to contain mpox and protect vulnerable populations across the continent.
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