Global Health Emergency Declared: Urgent Worldwide Action Needed

The World Health Organization (WHO) has declared a global health emergency to combat a deadly monkeypox strain, emphasizing the need for immediate action to prevent its spread.

At a Glance

WHO declares mpox a global public health emergency for the second time in two years
The outbreak originated in the Democratic Republic of Congo and spread to neighboring African countries
Over 17,000 suspected cases and 517 deaths reported in Africa this year, a 160% increase from last year
A new, more transmissible version of the virus (clade Ib) is spreading through close contact, including sexual contact
WHO emphasizes the need for a coordinated international response to stop the outbreak

WHO Sounds the Alarm on Mpox Outbreak

The World Health Organization (WHO) has taken a decisive step in the fight against a rapidly spreading monkeypox strain by declaring a global health emergency. This marks the second time in two years that mpox has reached this critical status, underscoring the severity of the current outbreak.

The outbreak, which originated in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), has now spread to neighboring African countries, prompting serious concern among health officials. With over 17,000 suspected cases and 517 deaths reported in Africa this year alone – a staggering 160% increase from last year – the situation has become dire.

🚨 BREAKING:
"For all of these reasons, I have decided that the global #monkeypox outbreak represents a public health emergency of international concern."-@DrTedros pic.twitter.com/qvmYX1ZBAL

— World Health Organization (WHO) (@WHO) July 23, 2022

Understanding the New Mpox Strain

The current outbreak involves a new version of the virus, known as clade Ib. This strain is more transmissible and can cause severe infections. It’s spreading more easily through close contact, including sexual contact, affecting countries like Burundi, Kenya, Rwanda, and Uganda.

“The emergence of a new clade of mpox, its rapid spread in eastern DRC, and the reporting of cases in several neighbouring countries are very worrying. On top of outbreaks of other mpox clades in DRC and other countries in Africa, it’s clear that a coordinated international response is needed to stop these outbreaks and save lives.” – Dr Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, WHO Director-General

Mpox symptoms include a rash, fever, headache, muscle aches, back pain, low energy, and swollen lymph nodes. The disease can be particularly dangerous for immunocompromised individuals.

Global Response and Prevention Efforts

The WHO’s declaration of a “public health emergency of international concern” (PHEIC) is designed to facilitate research, funding, and international cooperation to contain the disease. This highest alert level from the WHO is expected to accelerate efforts to combat the outbreak.

“It’s clear that a coordinated international response is essential to stop these outbreaks and save lives,” said Ghebreyesus.

In response to the outbreak, the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has advised doctors to be alert for mpox in people with symptoms who have been in affected areas. The CDC has also issued travel advisories for the DRC and neighboring countries, recommending enhanced precautions.

Vaccination Efforts and Challenges

While a vaccine is available in the U.S., it’s not generally accessible in the DRC. To address this disparity, the U.S. is donating 50,000 vaccine doses. The CDC recommends two vaccine doses for those exposed to the virus or at elevated risk, which is effective against both known clades of the virus.

The WHO is coordinating with countries and partners for vaccine donations and equitable access to medical tools. An immediate funding requirement of US$ 15 million is anticipated for surveillance, preparedness, and response activities.

As the global community rallies to address this health crisis, it’s clear that swift, coordinated action is crucial to containing the spread of this dangerous mpox strain and protecting public health worldwide.