Mpox Outbreak Declared Continental Emergency in Africa

The World Health Organization (WHO) has declared the ongoing mpox outbreak in Africa a continental emergency. This is the first time the agency has designated any outbreak as a continental emergency, underscoring the escalating severity and widespread impact of the virus across the continent.

The World Health Organization (WHO) has declared the ongoing mpox outbreak in Africa a continental emergency, signaling an escalation in the severity and widespread impact of the virus. This marks the first time the agency has designated any outbreak as a continental emergency, highlighting the urgent need for international attention and resources to curb its spread.

The decision was made after a meeting of the WHO African Regional Committee on Thursday, where member states expressed concerns about the resurgence of mpox cases in several countries. The outbreak has been particularly severe in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), where over 3,500 confirmed cases and 150 deaths have been reported since the beginning of the year.

Mpox Outbreak Declared Continental Emergency in Africa

Other African countries, including Nigeria, Ghana, Cameroon, and Central African Republic, have also reported significant numbers of mpox infections. The virus, which is related to smallpox, causes flu-like symptoms, skin lesions, and can be potentially fatal.

The declaration of a continental emergency triggers a number of actions from WHO, including:

* Increased surveillance and data collection to track the spread of the virus

* Enhanced technical support to affected countries for outbreak response

* Coordination of resource mobilization and allocation

* Advocacy for increased international cooperation and funding

The WHO has emphasized that mpox is a preventable disease, and that timely vaccination and public health measures are crucial for containing its spread. The agency recommends vaccination for healthcare workers, close contacts of infected individuals, and people at high risk of infection.

Prevention measures include avoiding contact with infected people and animals, practicing good hygiene, and using personal protective equipment when caring for infected individuals.

The declaration of a continental emergency is a significant step in addressing the mpox outbreak in Africa. It underscores the severity of the situation and the urgent need for international cooperation and resources to support affected countries in controlling the spread of the virus.