The World Health Organization (WHO) has declared the outbreak of mpox, previously known as monkeypox, in parts of Africa as a public health emergency of international concern.
Rising Death Toll and Geographic Spread
The outbreak, which originated in the Democratic Republic of Congo, has already claimed the lives of at least 450 people. The disease, known for its high contagion rate, has now spread to other regions of central and east Africa. Scientists are particularly alarmed by the rapid spread of a new variant of mpox, which has shown a concerningly high fatality rate.
WHO’s Warning on Global Spread
WHO Director-General Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus expressed deep concern over the potential for the disease to spread further within Africa and potentially beyond its borders. The declaration of a global health emergency underscores the seriousness of the situation and the need for urgent international cooperation to contain the outbreak.
Transmission and Symptoms of Mpox
Mpox is primarily transmitted through close physical contact, including sexual activity, skin-to-skin contact, and close-range talking or breathing. The disease presents with flu-like symptoms, skin lesions, and can be fatal in severe cases. Current statistics indicate that four out of every 100 infected individuals succumb to the disease.
Vaccination and Prevention Efforts
Controlling mpox outbreaks relies heavily on preventing the spread of the virus, with vaccines playing a crucial role. However, vaccine availability is typically limited to those at high risk or individuals who have been in close contact with an infected person. The WHO’s emergency declaration is expected to mobilize additional resources and efforts to expand access to vaccines and other preventive measures.
The global health community is now on high alert as efforts intensify to curb the spread of mpox and prevent it from becoming a larger international crisis.
