The World Health Organization (WHO) has declared Mpox a global health emergency for the second time in two years. This viral infection, which spreads through close contact, is once again causing concern.
Understanding the Mpox Emergency
A “public health emergency of international concern” (PHEIC) is the highest alert level by the WHO. It is declared when diseases spread in unusual ways, prompting global cooperation and funding to address the outbreak. This declaration follows a similar label from the Africa Centres for Disease Control and Prevention earlier this week.
Why Mpox is an Emergency Again
Two years ago, the WHO declared an emergency when Mpox began spreading globally, particularly among men who have sex with men. The 2022 outbreak was controlled through behavioral changes, safe sex practices, and vaccines.
Mpox is not new; it has been a health issue in parts of Africa for decades. The first human case was recorded in Congo in 1970, with intermittent outbreaks since then. The current outbreak in Congo, the worst ever, has resulted in 27,000 cases and over 1,100 deaths since January 2023, mostly affecting children.
Current Situation and Concerns
The virus presents with flu-like symptoms and pus-filled lesions. While it is usually mild, it can be fatal, particularly for children, pregnant women, and those with weakened immune systems, like individuals with HIV.
Two strains of Mpox are currently spreading in Congo: the endemic form and a new variant. The new strain has raised global concern due to its rapid spread and limited knowledge about it. It spreads through sexual contact and other close interactions, including among children in displacement camps.
How Concerned Should You Be?
Mpox is a serious issue, particularly due to its impact on children and the potential for new variants. However, it is not comparable to COVID-19. Unlike COVID, Mpox does not spread easily through the air, and effective tools are available to manage its spread.
Future Steps
The emergency declaration aims to accelerate efforts to provide medical tools and funding to Congo. Improved surveillance and research are crucial to understand the virus better and contain its spread.
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