The World Health Organization (WHO) has officially declared mpox a global health emergency, citing the rapid spread of the virus across 13 African countries and the emergence of a concerning new variant.
Mpox, previously known as monkeypox, is a viral illness that causes fever, swollen lymph nodes, and a distinctive rash. While typically found in Central and West Africa, recent outbreaks have occurred in several countries outside the region, including the United States, the United Kingdom, and Canada.
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The WHO’s decision to declare mpox a global emergency underscores the growing concern about the virus’s potential impact on global health. This declaration is the highest level of alarm the WHO can issue, and it signals the need for a coordinated international response to contain the outbreak.
The emergence of a new mpox variant is particularly worrisome, as it appears to be more transmissible and may cause more severe illness than previous strains. Scientists are racing to learn more about this new variant and its potential implications for public health.
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The WHO is calling on all countries to take immediate action to prevent the further spread of mpox. This includes strengthening surveillance and testing, improving access to vaccines and treatments, and educating the public about the virus.
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