WHO Declares Mpox Outbreak a Global Health Emergency amid Rapid Spread
The Indian Express, New Delhi, August 2024: The World Health Organization (WHO) has declared the latest mpox outbreak a Public Health Emergency of International Concern (PHEIC) following a surge in cases in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) and neighboring countries. Since 2022, mpox—a viral infection caused by the mpox virus (MPXV)—has resulted in 99,176 cases and 208 deaths across 116 countries. The infection, which can cause severe symptoms, including fever, rash, and swollen lymph nodes, has spread rapidly, particularly with the emergence of the Clade Ib strain.
WHO Director-General Dr. Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus expressed concern, stating, “The emergence of a new clade of mpox, its rapid spread in eastern DRC, and the reporting of cases in several neighboring countries are very worrying.” The Clade Ib strain, previously unknown for sexual transmission, is now emerging as a threat beyond traditional endemic areas.
India’s experience with Mpox during the 2022 outbreak, which included 27 confirmed cases, highlights the potential risk of the virus spreading through global travel. With the first case of the more contagious Clade Ib detected in Sweden, India’s health systems must remain vigilant to prevent a potential resurgence.
