WHO Declares Mpox Global Health Emergency

A new, deadlier strain of the mpox virus, Clade 1b, has been confirmed in Sweden and is likely already in the UK, posing a significant health threat. The World Health Organization (WHO) has declared mpox a global health emergency, marking this the second time since its initial outbreak in 2022. Clade 1b is more severe and has a higher mortality rate compared to previous strains, leading to heightened vigilance across Europe. Despite the global alert, experts believe that widespread transmission remains unlikely due to better supportive care and vaccines available compared to the initial COVID-19 pandemic. Preventative measures include avoiding physical contact with infected individuals and maintaining good hygiene. Health officials are closely monitoring the situation, especially in the Democratic Republic of Congo and neighboring countries, where the virus has caused significant fatalities.