WHO declares monkeypox (mpox) global health emergency

On August 14, 2024, WHO Director-General Dr. Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus declared mpox or monkeypox as a public health emergency of international concern (PHEIC). 

The disease entered this category due to the number of African countries affected and the increased cases in the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC).

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The WHO says it is working with countries and vaccine manufacturers to open access to vaccinations for lower-income countries. 

What is monkeypox or mpox?

The World Health Organization says mpox is an infectious disease from the monkeypox virus. The Cleveland Clinic lists the following symptoms:

• Fever
• Rash
• Swollen lymph nodes
• Chills
• Headache
• Muscle aches
• Fatigue

The rashes start as flat, red bumps that become painful blisters filled with pus. Eventually, the blisters harden and fall off.

Additional sores grow and dry up for two to four days, covering the mouth, face, hands, feet, penis, vagina, or anus. Some people may not develop all symptoms but the following combinations: 

• Only rashes form and then other symptoms develop later. 
• Others may develop flu-like symptoms and then a rash, but some may not develop skin problems.
• The rashes may become widespread, but some only have a few bumps or blisters. 

You may also contract mpox without knowing it. Consequently, you and others with no signs of infection may spread the disease to others. 

A person may catch monkeypox by coming into contact with oral fluids, respiratory droplets, scabs, and sores. Also, animal-to-person transmission occurs through bites, scratches, blood, and body fluids.

You may also get the disease by touching contaminated materials like clothing and bedding. At the time of writing,  there are no proven antiviral treatments for monkeypox.

The WHO is working with countries and vaccine manufacturers on potential vaccine donations and the Medical Countermeasures network to facilitate equitable access.

Aside from inoculation, you may avoid mpox with the following methods:

• Avoid contact with infected animals and objects.
• Thoroughly cook foods that contain animal meat or parts.
• Wash your hands frequently with soap and water.
• Avoid contact with people who may be infected with the virus.
• Practice safe sex, including the use of condoms.
• Wear a mask that covers your mouth and nose when around others.
• Clean and disinfect frequently touched surfaces.
• Use personal protective equipment (PPE) when caring for people infected with the virus.