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The World Health Organization has implemented the measure due to the identification of a more dangerous variant of the mpox virus.
The World Health Organization (WHO) has declared an international health emergency due to a more dangerous variant of the monkeypoxdetected in Africa. This decision was taken after 15,000 cases and 461 deaths were recorded in 2024, figures that have increased significantly compared to the previous year. This is the second time in two years that the WHO has issued such an alert.
Declaration of emergency and recommendations
WHO Director-General Adhanom Tedros Ghebreyesus expressed his concern at a press conference: “The detection and rapid spread of a new variant of mpox (monkeypox) in eastern Democratic Republic of the Congo, its detection in neighbouring countries that have not previously reported it, and the potential for further spread within Africa and beyond is very worrying.” Ghebreyesus also stressed that, in the face of outbreaks in Africa, “a coordinated international response is essential to stop these outbreaks and save lives.”
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An international health emergency can improve the response to the public health crisis by fostering cooperation between countries and organizations. However, it does not force States to act. It can also accelerate the development and distribution of vaccines.
Contagion and lethality of the new variant
The new variant of monkeypox is transmitted more easily than the original. Initially, infection occurred through direct or indirect contact with bodily fluids. Currently, 70% of cases affect children under 15 years of age. Africa. Moreover, the new strain shows a higher lethality, with an estimated mortality rate of 3% among those infected. However, it is important to note that the data comes from African regions with less developed health systems.
Symptoms of monkeypox
Monkeypox, or simian smallpox, has a variety of symptoms. The first symptoms include high fever, muscle aches, headache, fatigue and weakness. Later, a skin rash appears that spreads across the body, with red spots, bumps, fluid-filled blisters and scabs.
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2024-08-17 22:04:09
#declares #international #emergency #lethal #variant #monkeypox
2024-08-17 22:04:09
#declares #international #emergency #lethal #variant #monkeypox
2024-08-17 22:06:04