Mpox Outbreak Raises Global Health Concerns

WHO Considers Public Health Emergency Declaration

Outbreak Spreads in Africa, Raising Alarms

A growing outbreak of mpox in Africa has raised concerns among health officials, with the World Health Organization (WHO) considering a public health emergency declaration. The deadly outbreak, which was previously known as monkeypox, has spilled out of the Democratic Republic of Congo, sparking alarm globally.

Mpox gained global prominence two years ago after cases emerged worldwide during the COVID-19 pandemic. In 2022, the WHO declared a Public Health Emergency of International Concern (PHEIC) in response to the outbreak. The PHEIC lasted from July 2022 to May 2023 and caused significant global concern.

The current outbreak has led to a resurgence of cases, particularly in Africa. The outbreak has primarily affected gay and bisexual men, raising concerns about the potential for further spread and discrimination. The WHO is closely monitoring the situation and will make a decision on a PHEIC declaration based on the outbreak's severity and potential impact.