WHO Declares Mpox Emergency; Pope Urges Vaccine Aid as Africa Awaits First Batch

Aug 26, 2024, 12:50 PM

The World Health Organization (WHO) has declared a public health emergency due to a new outbreak of Mpox in Africa. The outbreak has been particularly severe in the Democratic Republic of Congo, which accounts for the majority of cases and over 450 deaths. The virus, which spreads through close contact, has affected mostly children under the age of 10 in the region. In response, the first batch of Mpox vaccines is expected to arrive in Africa next week. However, the Democratic Republic of Congo will not receive its expected delivery of vaccines this week. Pope Francis has called on governments and the pharmaceutical industry to expedite vaccine distribution to the worst-hit countries. Maria Van Kerkhove from the WHO emphasized the importance of strong surveillance to control the virus's spread. The WHO has launched a global strategic preparedness and response plan, requiring $135 million in funding to enhance surveillance, prevention, and response strategies. The plan also aims to advance research and ensure equitable access to diagnostic tests and vaccines. The outbreak involves different Mpox clades, with Clade Ia primarily affecting children and Clade Ib spreading through sexual networks.