Concern Rises Amidst Rising Cases In African Countries

Mpox Outbreak: Global Health Emergency Declared

Concern Rises Amidst Rising Cases in African Countries

Mpox, formerly known as monkeypox, has been declared a global health emergency by the World Health Organization (WHO) as cases surge in several African countries.

Since May 2022, mpox cases have been reported from countries where the disease is typically not endemic, including Europe and the United States. The Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) has reported the highest number of cases, with over 14,000 confirmed and 96 new cases in May 2024.

Mpox is a viral illness caused by the monkeypox virus, which belongs to the genus Orthopoxvirus. It is typically transmitted through close contact with infected animals or humans, and symptoms include fever, rash, and swollen lymph nodes.

The WHO notes that the rapid spread of mpox in African countries is a significant concern, and that further research is needed to understand the extent of the outbreak and its potential impact on global health. The organization has called for increased surveillance, testing, and vaccination efforts to contain the outbreak and prevent its further spread.

In the United States, mpox case trends data will continue to be updated the first week of every month. As of May 1, 2024, cases continue to be primarily reported in people who are not vaccinated against the mpox virus.