The World Health Organization (WHO) has officially declared the recent outbreak of mpox (formerly known as monkeypox) in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) and other African countries as a Public Health Emergency of International Concern (PHEIC).
The recent declaration follows a sharp rise in cases and fatalities, with the DRC alone reporting over 15,600 cases and 537 deaths. The outbreak has extended to neighboring nations like Burundi, Kenya, Rwanda, and Uganda.
The WHO has raised alarms regarding the emergence of a new strain, clade 1b, primarily transmitted through sexual networks. Two approved vaccines are recommended by the WHO to combat this strain. The organization is collaborating with countries and vaccine manufacturers to ensure fair access to vaccines and other essential tools. Initial funding of $15 million is crucial to support surveillance and response efforts.
This marks the second PHEIC declaration for mpox in two years, underscoring the necessity for a united global response to halt the outbreak and safeguard lives.
Additionally, international cooperation and swift action are imperative to contain the spread of the disease and prevent further devastation.
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