The World Health Organization (WHO) has declared the mpox outbreak in parts of Africa a public health emergency of international concern (PHEIC). This determination comes after an upsurge of mpox cases in the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) and several other African countries. Here are the key points:
Background:
- Mpox, formerly known as monkeypox, is caused by an Orthopoxvirus and was first detected in humans in 1970 in the DRC.
- The disease is considered endemic to countries in central and west Africa.
Current Situation:
- Cases have increased significantly, with a 160% rise compared to the same period last year.
- Deaths have also increased by 19%, resulting in over 14,000 cases and 524 fatalities.
- A new, deadlier variant of the virus has emerged.
Emergency Declaration:
- WHO Director-General Dr. Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus declared the outbreak a PHEIC based on advice from an IHR Emergency Committee.
- The committee expressed concern about the potential spread of mpox across countries in Africa and beyond.
International Response:
- Coordinated international efforts are needed to curb the outbreaks and save lives.
- WHO Regional Director for Africa, Dr. Matshidiso Moeti, emphasized the importance of scaling up measures to contain the virus.
History:
- This is the second PHEIC declaration related to mpox in two years.
- In 2022, a multi-country outbreak of mpox was declared a PHEIC due to rapid spread via sexual contact. It was later declared over in May 2023.
Call to Action:
- Committee Chair Professor Dimie Ogoina urged decisive action to prevent history from repeating itself.
Remember, mpox outbreaks require global vigilance and collaboration to prevent further spread.