WHO Declares Global Emergency Over Mpox Outbreak

The World Health Organization (WHO) has declared a public health emergency due to the rising cases of Mpox, or monkeypox, particularly affecting at least 14 African countries, including Kenya and Uganda. Dr. Angelique Coetzee noted that in South Africa, the disease is represented by two clades, with clade 2 B currently prevalent, while clade 1 B is more associated with the Democratic Republic of Congo. WHO's Regional Director for Europe, Hans Kluge, stated that while the risk to the general population is low, Europe must prepare for potential imported cases due to close travel links with Africa. Meanwhile, UK health officials are on alert for possible cases, emphasizing the importance of vaccination and preparedness. There are concerns about misinformation surrounding Mpox, with some suggesting it follows the narrative of previous pandemics, causing alarm among certain groups. Overall, health experts stress the need for informed responses and vaccine access to address the outbreak effectively.