WHO Declares Mpox a Global Health Emergency for the Second Time

WHO Declares Mpox a Global Health Emergency for the Second Time

Lauren Pelley | CBC News | August 14, 2024

The World Health Organization (WHO) has reclassified mpox as a global health emergency, marking the second time this declaration has been made. This decision follows a surge in cases and deaths across Africa, where the virus is exhibiting troubling new characteristics.

Key Developments:

• Current Situation: Mpox cases have surged in Africa, with more than 15,000 infections and nearly 500 deaths reported this year alone—a 160% increase compared to 2023. The virus, which causes painful lesions and can be severe or fatal, is spreading rapidly across 18 African nations.
• New Strain: The new clade Ib strain of mpox, identified in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), is causing more severe illness and is now appearing in neighboring countries like Rwanda, Uganda, Kenya, and Burundi. This strain is of particular concern as it may be more transmissible and cause more severe disease compared to previous strains.
• Vaccine Shortages: There is an urgent need for vaccines in Africa, where 10 million doses are required, yet only 200,000 doses have been procured. The WHO has facilitated the emergency use listing for vaccines, which should help accelerate distribution in lower-income countries. The U.S. and European Commission have pledged to support vaccine donations to Africa.
• Global Response: Canada has sufficient vaccine doses for domestic needs and is considering options to donate surplus vaccines. The U.S. has already pledged 50,000 doses, and the European Commission is coordinating the donation of 215,000 doses.
• Impact on Vulnerable Populations: New research suggests that the clade Ib strain may spread more easily through close contact and impact vulnerable populations, including infants and children. Early research indicates this strain could spread beyond sexual networks and affect broader groups.

Challenges Ahead: The WHO’s declaration highlights the need for a coordinated international response to control the outbreak and prevent further global spread. Effective vaccination campaigns and public health measures are crucial to managing the situation and mitigating the impact on affected regions.

SOURCE: CBC NEWS