The World Health Organization (WHO) has declared Mpox a global health emergency as outbreaks continue to escalate across Africa. This alarming announcement came on Wednesday, following the Africa Centers for Disease Control and Prevention’s (CDC) statement that the situation was critical, with over 500 deaths linked to the disease.
WHO Director-General Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus expressed deep concern, saying, “This is something that should concern us all… The potential for further spread beyond Africa is very worrying.”
While only one case has been reported in Kenya, Mpox, characterized by flu-like symptoms and pus-filled lesions, has spread to countries including Burundi, the Central African Republic, and Rwanda. The Africa CDC head, Jean Kaseya, highlighted the urgency of the situation, declaring, “This declaration is not merely a formality. It is a clarion call to action. We can no longer afford to be reactive. We must be proactive and aggressive in our efforts to contain and eliminate this threat.”
The global health emergency status is expected to enhance government coordination across African nations, improving response strategies and facilitating the flow of essential medical supplies to the most affected areas.
Notably, recent Mpox outbreaks have been linked back to the original cases in Congo, with additional cases reported in Ivory Coast and South Africa featuring a less dangerous strain. The WHO’s declaration seeks to mobilize international resources and support to combat this emerging health crisis.
