The World Health Organization (WHO) has declared that the mpox outbreak is still a public health emergency of international concern, its highest level of alert.
The declaration comes as the outbreak continues to spread, particularly in the Democratic Republic of Congo and neighboring countries.
The WHO’s director-general has issued a revised set of temporary recommendations to help combat the outbreak.
The WHO first declared the mpox outbreak a public health emergency in August last year, when a new form of the disease spread rapidly across the region.
Since then, the organization has been working closely with affected countries and international partners to control the outbreak and prevent further spread.
Mpox, formerly known as monkeypox, is a viral disease that can cause symptoms such as fever, headache, and a characteristic rash. While most cases are mild, the disease can be severe and even fatal in some instances.
The WHO’s declaration underscores the need for continued vigilance and action to control the spread of the disease.
The organization’s temporary recommendations include measures to enhance surveillance, improve contact tracing, and increase access to vaccines and treatments.
The WHO is working with countries and international partners to strengthen their response to the outbreak and prevent further spread.
The organization’s declaration serves as a reminder of the importance of global cooperation and coordination in responding to public health emergencies.
