Mpox Outbreak: A Global Health Emergency
West African strain of virus more virulent, deadly
WHO raises response to highest level
The World Health Organization (WHO) has declared the ongoing mpox outbreak in Africa a public health emergency of international concern, the highest level of alert the organization can issue. The declaration comes as the outbreak continues to spread in non-endemic countries, with over 16,000 cases reported worldwide.
The outbreak started in 2022, and the virus has since spread to over 70 countries. The majority of cases have been reported in Africa, but there have also been significant outbreaks in Europe and the Americas.
The virus is spread through close contact with an infected person or animal. Symptoms of mpox include fever, headache, muscle aches, and a rash that can spread to the face, hands, and feet.
The WHO has called for increased surveillance, testing, and vaccination to control the outbreak. The organization has also recommended that people avoid contact with infected individuals and animals, and that they practice good hygiene.
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