BTN News: The World Health Organization (WHO) has issued an international health emergency in response to the alarming spread of the mpox virus (formerly known as monkeypox) beyond the borders of the Democratic Republic of Congo. This marks the second time the organization has triggered its highest alert level under the International Health Regulations for this virus. The decision came shortly after the Africa Centres for Disease Control and Prevention (Africa CDC) declared a health alert on the continent, following a surge of over 15,000 cases and 451 deaths in 2024. As the virus spreads to new regions and countries, global health authorities are urging for coordinated international action and widespread vaccination to prevent further escalation.
Surge in Mpox Cases Triggers Global Alarm
The rapid escalation of mpox cases in Africa has prompted swift action from international health bodies. With more than 15,000 cases and 451 deaths reported in just the first half of 2024, the outbreak mirrors the total number of cases recorded throughout the entire previous year. Dr. Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, Director-General of the WHO, noted that the virus has reached provinces previously unaffected, signaling a dangerous trend.
“The number of cases reported in the first six months of this year matches those reported throughout last year, and the virus has spread to new areas,” Dr. Ghebreyesus emphasized. “This expansion raises concerns about further transmission within Africa and beyond.”
Mpox Reaches Neighboring Countries, Raising Fears of Wider Spread
WHO’s decision to declare a public health emergency was significantly influenced by the detection of mpox in neighboring countries that had not previously reported any cases. This development underscores the virus’s potential to spread more widely within Africa and possibly to other continents.
“The appearance of mpox in countries where it was not previously seen is deeply concerning,” Dr. Ghebreyesus said. “A coordinated international response is crucial to stop these outbreaks and save lives. An international public health emergency is the highest level of alert in global health regulation.”
Vaccination Urged as Key to Containing Outbreak
Global health officials are advocating for vaccination as a primary defense against the mpox virus. While vaccines have proven effective in halting the spread in Western countries, achieving the same outcome in Africa remains a challenge. Approximately 3% of those who test positive for mpox in Africa have died, although the true mortality rate could be higher due to limited diagnostic capabilities and inadequate healthcare infrastructure.
The Africa CDC declared a continental emergency one day before WHO’s announcement to unlock funding for acquiring the two vaccines currently recommended for prevention. As the virus shows signs of spreading globally, the CDC has warned of the high risk of international transmission.
United States Joins Global Efforts Amid Rising Mpox Cases
On August 4, 2024, the United States declared a national public health emergency due to the escalating mpox outbreak, with nearly 7,000 cases reported across the country. The declaration came after New York, Illinois, and California each declared states of emergency as they grappled with rapidly increasing infection rates.
U.S. Health Secretary Xavier Becerra urged citizens to take the outbreak seriously. “All Americans should take responsibility to help us combat this virus,” Becerra stated, underscoring the importance of awareness and preventive measures.
Africa at the Epicenter: Limited Resources Hamper Response
Despite global efforts, the situation in Africa remains dire. Healthcare systems across the continent are facing significant challenges, with limited resources to manage the outbreak effectively. Diagnostic capacities are inadequate, and access to vaccines and treatments is constrained, complicating efforts to control the virus’s spread.
The WHO continues to call for international solidarity, highlighting the need for funding, resources, and support to strengthen healthcare systems and ensure equitable access to vaccines.
Conclusion: Coordinated Global Action Needed to Combat Mpox Spread
With the WHO’s declaration of a global health emergency, the world is on high alert as mpox cases continue to surge across continents. Immediate and coordinated action is essential to prevent further transmission and protect vulnerable populations. Vaccination campaigns, public awareness, and international collaboration are key to mitigating the impact of the outbreak and preventing a broader global crisis.
