WHO declares monkeypox outbreak in Africa a global emergency

WHO Director-General Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus stated that the new clade of mpox, which is rapidly spreading in the eastern regions of the DRC and neighboring countries, is of serious concern and may impact the global epidemiological situation.

WHO Regional Director for Africa, Matshidiso Moeti, noted that WHO is actively working with communities and governments of African countries to strengthen measures to control the outbreak. She mentioned that the virus is spreading rapidly.

Committee Chair Professor Dimie Ogoina emphasized that mpox, which was not initially considered a major threat, has now become a global issue.

WHO reminded that in 2022, monkeypox also spread rapidly, leading to a declaration of an emergency that lasted until May 2023.

Currently, the number of registered cases in the DRC exceeds 15,600, with 537 fatalities. The new strain of the virus, which is spreading rapidly and has already affected neighboring countries, is causing particular concern among specialists.

To combat the outbreak, WHO plans to expedite access to vaccines and enhance international cooperation. The organization has already allocated $1.45 million for emergency measures and is appealing to donors to fund the full range of necessary actions.

Mpox virus

Monkeypox (mpox) is transmitted to humans through contact with the skin of infected animals. Transmission from person to person is possible through direct contact with blood, as well as through household or sexual contact. Monkeypox can also spread through the air during prolonged close contact.

The main symptoms include high fever, rash, swollen lymph nodes, muscle pain, and weakness. Typically, the virus is overcome within two to four weeks, but in rare cases, it can be fatal.

The fatality rate for human infection ranges from 1% to 11%. Scientists note that the smallpox vaccine is effective against monkeypox.

Earlier, WHO called on the world to prepare for a new disease X.