WHO Declares Mpox a Global Health Emergency Again: What's Next?

The World Health Organization has declared mpox, a viral infection that spreads through close contact, a global health emergency. The recent outbreak in Congo has led to over 27,000 cases and more than 1,100 deaths. The declaration aims to expedite medical tools and funding to contain the virus.

The World Health Organization has declared an outbreak of mpox, a viral infection that spreads through close contact, a global health emergency for the second time in two years. This latest outbreak has caused concern due to its rapid spread and high fatality rate.

Mpox, characterized by flu-like symptoms and pus-filled lesions, primarily affects those with weakened immune systems, such as children, pregnant women, and people with HIV. The virus spreads through close physical contact, including sexual contact, but not easily through the air. The recent strain, first identified in the Democratic Republic of Congo, has proven particularly contagious.

The WHO's declaration aims to galvanize international cooperation and funding to tackle the outbreak. Despite similar past appeals, there has been significant inequity in vaccine distribution, particularly to African countries, which remain vulnerable. The emergency status hopes to address these gaps and improve surveillance and access to medical tools.

(With inputs from agencies.)