WHO Declares 'Find The Mpox!' Global Hunt.

 


The World Health Organization (WHO) has declared the spread of mpox in Africa a Public Health Emergency of International Concern (PHEIC) as of August 14, 2024. This declaration comes in response to an outbreak primarily in the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) and its spread to neighboring countries, including Burundi, Kenya, Rwanda, and Uganda. Here's a summary of the latest developments:


- **Outbreak Details**: More than 17,000 suspected mpox cases and over 500 deaths have been reported across Africa this year, marking a significant increase compared to previous periods. The outbreak involves a new strain, clade 1b, which is considered more transmissible and has a higher fatality rate than the strains responsible for previous outbreaks.


- **Global Response**: Following this declaration, the WHO has launched a global Strategic Preparedness and Response Plan aimed at stopping the human-to-human transmission of mpox. This initiative involves coordinated efforts at global, regional, and national levels to contain the outbreak. 


- **Vaccination and Treatment**: There's an emphasis on increasing access to vaccines and treatments. The JYNNEOS vaccine, effective against mpox, is being recommended, especially for those at higher risk. However, the availability of these medical resources in Africa, particularly in the DRC, remains a challenge.


- **Public Health Measures**: The declaration is intended to accelerate research, funding, and international public health measures. This includes enhancing surveillance, diagnostic testing, isolation, and treatment to prevent further spread.


- **Public Sentiment and Media**: On platforms like X, there's a mix of concern and calls for action, with some users highlighting the WHO's efforts in launching strategic plans and others expressing skepticism or alarm about the implications of such outbreaks.


- **Implications**: The WHO's declaration underscores the gravity of the situation, aiming to mobilize resources, enhance global cooperation, and implement effective containment strategies. However, the response also highlights ongoing challenges in global health equity, particularly in vaccine distribution and healthcare infrastructure in affected regions.


This situation reflects a critical moment in global health security, emphasizing the need for swift, coordinated international action to manage and mitigate the spread of infectious diseases like mpox.