WHO declares mpox global health emergency

The World Health Organization (WHO) declared mpox (formerly known as monkeypox) a global health emergency on July 23, 2022. This decision was made due to the rapid global spread of the virus, with a significant number of cases reported in multiple countries where the disease was not typically found.

Key details leading to the declaration include:

1. Rising Cases: Mpox cases surged in non-endemic countries, especially in Europe and North America. By July 2022, over 16,000 cases were reported across 75 countries, signaling a concerning level of transmission.

2. Mode of Transmission: The virus was primarily spreading through close physical contact, including sexual contact. This mode of transmission facilitated its spread in densely populated areas and within specific communities, such as men who have sex with men (MSM).

3. Health Impact: Although mpox is typically less severe than smallpox, it still caused significant health concerns. Symptoms include fever, rash, and swollen lymph nodes, and in some cases, it led to severe complications, particularly in immunocompromised individuals.

4. Global Response: The declaration aimed to spur international coordination, resource allocation, and awareness to control the outbreak. It emphasized the need for vaccines, treatments, and public health measures to prevent further spread.

5. Vaccination and Treatment: Some vaccines and treatments used for smallpox showed effectiveness against mpox. The global health emergency status helped accelerate the distribution of these resources to affected regions.

The declaration of mpox as a global health emergency underscored the urgency of the situation and the need for a coordinated global response to prevent a larger, more widespread outbreak.

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