WHO Considers Global Health Emergency for Mpox Outbreak
New Clade 1b variant drives surge in Africa, prompting urgent international response.
- Democratic Republic of Congo reports over 90% of Africa's mpox cases, with high infection and mortality rates among children.
- Mpox cases have spread to 16 African countries, with Kenya, Rwanda, and Uganda reporting infections for the first time.
- The African Union has allocated $10.4 million to support the Africa CDC's response efforts.
- Experts warn of potential global spread due to inadequate vaccine supply and health system challenges in affected regions.
- WHO and Africa CDC are coordinating efforts to expand vaccine access and control the outbreak.