WHO assesses global emergency for the spread of Mpox Virus in Africa

WHO’s Director-General Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus has announced that a panel of experts will be convened to assess whether the growing spread of Mpox virus in Africa justifies the declaration of a global emergency. The virus has been detected in 10 African countries this year, with the Congo accounting for over 96% of cases and deaths, as reported by the Africa Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Cases are up 160% and deaths 19% over last year. The virus is spreading mainly among children under 15. WHO has allocated $1 million to support the emergency response. The spread is facilitated by close contact with infected people. WHO is calling for an urgent response to prevent further infections.