The highly infectious disease mpox, previously known as monkeypox, has been declared a public health emergency of international concern by the World Health Organization (WHO). The declaration comes in response to a rapid increase in cases across Central and East Africa, notably in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), which has registered over 15,600 cases and more than 500 deaths since the start of the year. A new, potentially more deadly strain of the virus has been identified, prompting calls for a coordinated international response to prevent further spread and protect vulnerable populations.
- Mpox, formerly known as monkeypox, has seen a rapid spread across Central and East Africa, leading to the WHO declaring it a public health emergency of international concern.
- The initial outbreak in the Democratic Republic of Congo has resulted in over 15,600 cases and more than 500 deaths since the beginning of the year.
- Health officials have identified a new strain of the virus, referred to as CA 1B, which is believed to be more virulent and dangerous.
- The disease starts with flu-like symptoms and can lead to severe lesions and rashes on the body.
- Mpox is transmitted through physical contact or through the air, and while it can be sexually transmitted, most patients in the affected areas are children who contract it through direct contact.
- The latest outbreak has killed 450 people in the DRC, with the CA 1B variant now detected in neighboring countries, including Burundi, Kenya, Rwanda, Uganda, and the Central African Republic.
- A coordinated international response is deemed essential to stop the outbreaks and save lives, as indicated by the WHO’s declaration of a global health emergency.
- Vaccination against mpox is possible and has been used in previous outbreaks, but vaccines are not widely available in the DRC, leaving many to rely on their immune systems.
- The WHO warns that without further action to stop the spread of the new variant, the consequences could extend far beyond the current affected areas.
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