Table of Contents
The outbreak of the Mpox virus remains a public health emergency, the World Health Organization said on Friday (November 22), according to Reuters.
The WHO first declared the emergency in August when an outbreak of a new form of mpox spread from the hard-hit Democratic Republic of Congo to neighboring countries.
WHO had convened a meeting of the Emergency Committee and, agreeing with its advice, the Director-General of WHO decided that the mpox outbreak remained a public health emergency requiring international concern.
The decision is based on the increasing number and continued geographic spread of cases, operational challenges in the field and the need to organize and maintain a coherent response across countries and partners, WHO said.
What is Mpox
Mpox is a viral infection that spreads through close contact and typically causes flu-like symptoms and pus-filled sores. It is usually mild but can be fatal.
This year, there have been more than 46,000 suspected cases across Africa, mostly in Congo, and more than 1,000 deaths possibly linked to the virus.
The “public health emergency of international concern” designation is the WHO’s highest form of alert and was also applied to a global outbreak of a different form of mpox in 2022-2023.
Spread of the virus
The alert issued this year followed the spread of a new variant of the virus, called class Ib.
Cases of this variant have been confirmed in the UK, Germany, Sweden and India, among other countries.
Vaccination
In September the World Health Organization faced criticism that it was moving too slowly in the vaccination process.
Following the accusations, the agency approved Bavarian Nordic’s mpox vaccine.
At the beginning of November, the Japanese KM Biologics vaccine was registered for emergency use.
#Mpox #Bell #virus
How can international collaboration and global health partnerships effectively contribute to strengthening healthcare systems and improving Mpox surveillance and response capabilities, particularly in vulnerable countries?
## World Today News: Mpox – A Continuing Global Threat?
**Host:** Welcome back to World Today News. Today we’re discussing the ongoing Mpox outbreak, which the World Health Organization has declared a Public Health Emergency of International Concern for the second time in as many years.
Joining us today are Dr. Amelia Chen, an infectious disease specialist, and Dr. Kwame Osei, a public health expert with extensive experience in the Democratic Republic of Congo. Welcome to both of you.
**Dr. Chen & Dr. Osei:** Thank you for having us.
**Host:** Let’s start with the basics. Dr. Chen, for our viewers who may be unfamiliar, could you explain what Mpox is and how it spreads?
**Dr. Chen:** Certainly. Mpox is a viral infection that primarily spreads through close contact with infected individuals or animals. This can include skin-to-skin contact, contact with infected bodily fluids, or respiratory droplets. The symptoms initially resemble flu-like illness, followed by the development of characteristic pus-filled skin lesions.
**Host:** We know that the current outbreak involves a new variant, class Ib. Dr. Osei, can you shed light on the significance of this variant and its geographical reach?
**Dr. Osei:** The emergence of class Ib is worrisome because it demonstrates the virus’s ability to mutate and potentially become more transmissible. While cases have been reported primarily in Africa, we’re seeing a worrying trend of international spread, with confirmed cases in several countries outside the continent.
**Host:**
**Thematic Section: Global Response and Challenges**
**Host:** Dr. Chen, the WHO has declared Mpox a Public Health Emergency of International Concern twice now. What prompted this decision, and what are the implications?
**Dr. Chen:** The WHO’s decision reflects the seriousness of the situation. The increasing case numbers, the virus’s geographic spread, and the challenges in controlling the outbreak necessitate a coordinated global response.
**Host:**
Dr. Osei, the outbreak is particularly severe in the Democratic Republic of Congo. What are the biggest challenges to containing the virus there?
**Dr. Osei:** The DRC faces numerous obstacles. Limited healthcare infrastructure, poverty, and ongoing conflict hinder effective surveillance, testing, and access to treatment. Additionally, there’s a pressing need for community education and engagement.
**Host:**
**Thematic Section: Vaccine Development & Access**
**Host:** Both the Bavarian Nordic and KM Biologics vaccines have been approved or registered for emergency use. Dr. Chen, how crucial are these vaccines in combatting the outbreak?
**Dr. Chen:** Vaccines are a powerful tool in the fight against Mpox. They can significantly reduce the risk of infection and severe disease.
**Host:** However, accessibility remains a critical issue. Dr. Osei, what steps need to be taken to ensure equitable vaccine distribution, particularly in regions most affected by the outbreak?
**Dr. Osei:** International cooperation is paramount. Wealthier nations need to prioritize vaccine sharing and support the development of local production capabilities in affected countries.
**Host:** Dr. Chen, looking ahead, what are the most important priorities for the global community in addressing the Mpox outbreak?
**Dr. Chen:** Continued surveillance, research into new treatments, public health education, and strengthening healthcare systems, particularly in vulnerable regions, are crucial.
**Host:** Dr. Osei, what message do you have for our viewers regarding Mpox?
**Dr. Osei:** Awareness and prevention are key. Stay informed about the signs and symptoms, practice good hygiene, and consult a healthcare professional if you suspect exposure.
**Host:** Thank you both for your valuable insights.
We hope this interview has provided a comprehensive overview of the ongoing Mpox situation and the challenges and responses involved. Stay with us for more updates on this developing story.
