By : Lloyd Mahachi
The World Health Organization (WHO) has decided to keep its highest alert level for mpox due to a surge in cases. This decision was made by a WHO committee of independent experts in Geneva, three months after mpox was declared a public health emergency of global concern in August. The WHO explained that its decision is based on the rising number of cases, the continued spread of the disease to new areas, operational challenges, and the need for a unified response across countries and partners.
Most of the new cases are concentrated in the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) and neighboring countries. The WHO is working closely with these countries to control the outbreak and prevent further spread. A first batch of mpox vaccines was rolled out last month, which seems to have helped slow the spread of the disease. However, the WHO is waiting for more data to confirm the effectiveness of the vaccines.
The African Union’s health watchdog warned in October that the mpox outbreak is still not under control and requires more resources to prevent a pandemic. Mpox is usually a mild disease but can be fatal in rare cases. It has killed hundreds of people in the DRC and other countries. The disease spreads through close contact, sexual activity, or breathing in infectious particles, causing symptoms like swollen lymph nodes, rashes, and lesions.
The WHO declared mpox a public health emergency of international concern on August 14, 2024, due to its rapid spread in Africa and potential to spread globally. This declaration aims to raise awareness and mobilize resources to combat the outbreak. The WHO is working with countries to strengthen their preparedness and response to the outbreak, including enhancing surveillance, contact tracing, and vaccination efforts.
The global health community is concerned about the potential for mpox to spread further, especially in areas with weak healthcare systems. The WHO is urging countries to remain vigilant and take proactive measures to prevent the spread of the disease. This includes enhancing public awareness, promoting safe practices, and providing support to affected communities.
In conclusion, the WHO’s decision to maintain its highest alert level for mpox reflects the ongoing risk of the disease spreading globally. The international community must remain vigilant and work together to combat the outbreak, prevent further spread, and protect public health.
Editor : Josephine Mahachi