The World Health Organization has declared monkeypox a global public health emergency for the second time in two years, following an outbreak in the Democratic Republic of Congo that has spread to neighboring African countries. More than 17,000 suspected cases and 517 deaths have been reported so far this year. The virus has two distinct clades, with clade I causing more severe infections and clade II being milder. The outbreak in Congo began with the spread of clade I, which is known to be more transmissible. A new version of that strain, clade Ib, is now spreading and appears to be more easily transmissible through routine contact. The WHO has emphasized the need for coordinated international response to stop the outbreak and save lives. While cases of monkeypox have declined in the U.S., doctors are asked to be vigilant for symptoms in people who have recently traveled to affected areas. The illness usually starts with a rash that progresses to small bumps and blisters. A vaccine is available in the U.S. but not widely accessible in the Democratic Republic of Congo. The CDC recommends vaccination for those at risk of infection, such as men who have sex with men. Overall, the situation highlights the importance of public health measures and cooperation to contain the disease and prevent further transmission.
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WHO declares smallpox a global public health emergency for the second time in two years
