WHO Declares Public Health Emergency for Mpox

Recent reports indicate that the dire predictions for Covid-19's impact in Africa were overstated, but disinformation continues to jeopardize public health efforts. As a new and more lethal strain of mpox (clade 1b) spreads, scientists warn that existing vaccines, which were effective against the milder variant, may not provide adequate protection. Experts, including Professor Marion Koopmans, emphasize the need for urgent studies to determine the efficacy of current vaccines against the new strain. Additionally, there are concerns about vaccine distribution inequities, as stockpiles remain in wealthier nations while the outbreak escalates in Africa. With over 17,000 cases and 500 deaths reported, international efforts must focus on ensuring equitable access to vaccines and treatments like tecovirimat (TPOXX). The situation highlights the critical need for a coordinated global response to prevent mpox from evolving into a larger pandemic.