Background

Mpox Declared a Public Health Emergency of International Concern by WHO

Background

On August 14, 2024, the World Health Organization (WHO) declared the ongoing outbreak of mpox a Public Health Emergency of International Concern (PHEIC). This declaration signifies that the outbreak poses a significant risk to global public health and requires a coordinated international response.

Outbreak in the Democratic Republic of the Congo

The current outbreak of mpox was first reported in the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) in May 2022. Since then, the virus has spread to several other countries in Central and West Africa, including Nigeria, Cameroon, Ghana, and Benin.

Transmission and Symptoms

Mpox is caused by the mpox virus, which belongs to the same family of viruses that causes smallpox. The virus is primarily transmitted through close contact with an infected person's bodily fluids, sores, or scabs. Symptoms of mpox include: * Fever * Headache * Muscle aches * Swollen lymph nodes * A characteristic rash that starts as small, flat spots and progresses to raised, pus-filled blisters

Public Health Concerns

The declaration of a PHEIC for mpox highlights the concerns surrounding its potential for significant public health impact. The virus can cause severe illness, and there is no specific treatment or cure. Additionally, the rapid spread of mpox to multiple countries raises concerns about its potential for global spread and the need for coordinated efforts to contain the outbreak.

WHO's Response

In response to the PHEIC declaration, the WHO has called for a range of measures to control the outbreak, including: * Strengthening surveillance and reporting systems * Enhancing laboratory capacity for rapid diagnosis * Ensuring access to vaccines and treatments * Providing technical support to affected countries

Steps to Protect Yourself

To protect yourself from mpox, the WHO recommends the following precautions: * Avoid close contact with people who are suspected or confirmed to have mpox * Practice good hand hygiene by washing your hands frequently with soap and water or using an alcohol-based hand sanitizer * Avoid touching your eyes, nose, or mouth with unwashed hands * Get vaccinated if recommended by your healthcare provider

Conclusion

The declaration of mpox as a PHEIC by the WHO underscores the seriousness of the outbreak and highlights the need for a coordinated global response. By implementing preventive measures and working together, we can help control the spread of the virus and protect ourselves and others from infection.