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WHO Declares Mpox Global Emergency on August 14 as Clade 1b Spreads to Asia, Ivory Coast Reports Cases

Aug 23, 2024, 11:40 AM

The World Health Organization (WHO) has declared the mpox outbreak a global health emergency as of August 14, 2024, as the virus spreads beyond Africa. Thailand has reported its first case of the new Clade 1b strain, marking the first detection in Asia. The outbreak has also reached the Philippines and Sweden, raising international concern. Côte d'Ivoire, also known as Ivory Coast, has reported its first cases of Clade II mpox since the multi-country outbreak began in 2022. In response to the rapid spread, the WHO has relaxed regulations to allow partners like Gavi and UNICEF to purchase vaccines for Africa before official approval, aiming to expedite vaccine distribution. The WHO estimates that $135 million is needed over the next six months to control the outbreak. The Africa Centres for Disease Control and Prevention has declared the outbreak a Public Health Emergency of Continental Security, highlighting the urgent need for vaccines and a comprehensive approach to manage the health crisis.