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WHO Declares Mpox a Public Health Emergency of International Concern

The World Health Organization (WHO) has declared the ongoing clade I mpox outbreak originating in the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) a Public Health Emergency of International Concern (PHEIC). This decision comes after a significant rise in cases across Central and East Africa, with new cases detected in the Burundi, Kenya, Rwanda, and Uganda, countries which have not previously reported mpox cases. The new strain (clade 1b), spreading more rapidly through sexual networks, has prompted swift action to contain the outbreak.

Mpox, a virus similar to smallpox, has long been a public health challenge in Africa. However, this latest outbreak has drawn international concern due to its rapid transmission and the limited availability of vaccines. WHO has emphasized the need for global collaboration to provide vaccines, treatment, and resources to affected regions, particularly in lower-income countries. With over 15,600 cases and 537 deaths recorded so far this year, the outbreak's potential to spread further underscores the urgent need for coordinated global action.

In response, the WHO is partnering with governments and organizations to deploy emergency response efforts, including vaccination campaigns and public health education initiatives. The organization has also called for a global fundraising effort to support these activities, estimating that $15 million will be required to manage the immediate response.

For more detailed information, visit the WHO's official announcement here.

Educational Resource: Mpox in 2024: Updates and Considerations for Frontline Staff updates from NETEC here.

 

Melissa is a Training Manager for the SPECTRE Program.


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