On Thursday, the World Health Organization (WHO) convened an emergency meeting to address the recent outbreak of monkeypox (Mpox) in Congo. This meeting aims to evaluate whether the virus’s spread warrants global concern.
WHO Director-General’s Statement
In a post on X, WHO Director-General Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus announced that an independent committee of experts will soon assess the situation. He stated:
“In light of the spread of #mpox outside #DRC, and the potential for further international spread within and outside Africa, I have decided to convene an Emergency Committee under the International Health Regulations to advise me on whether the outbreak represents a public health emergency of international concern.”
Surge in Cases
Since last September, the Central African nation of Congo has experienced a surge in mpox cases. The virus has now been detected in neighboring countries as well.
Statistics and Impact
- Cases and Deaths: The Democratic Republic of Congo has reported over 27,000 mpox cases and more than 1,100 deaths, predominantly among children.
- Regional Spread: Mpox has been detected in 10 African nations this year, with over 96% of the cases located in Congo, according to the Africa Centres for Disease Control and Prevention.
Historical Context
The WHO declared mpox, formerly known as monkeypox, a global emergency in 2022 following its spread to over 70 countries. The virus primarily affects youths, as indicated by the data.
Current Trends
- Increase in Cases: There has been a 160% increase in mpox cases this year.
- Death Rate: Deaths have surged by 19%, with 70% of the cases and 85% of the deaths occurring in children under 15.
Symptoms
The primary symptoms of mpox include:
- Fever
- Chills
- Respiratory problems (e.g., nasal congestion, cough)
- Swollen lymph nodes
- Muscle pain
Multiple-Choice Questions (MCQs):
- What prompted the WHO to call an emergency meeting on Thursday?
- A) A recent surge in COVID-19 cases
- B) An outbreak of monkeypox (Mpox) in Congo
- C) A global shortage of vaccines
- D) Rising cases of seasonal flu
- What did WHO Director-General Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus announce regarding the emergency committee?
- A) It will meet to discuss COVID-19 vaccine distribution
- B) It will advise on whether the monkeypox outbreak represents a public health emergency of international concern
- C) It will focus on climate change impact on health
- D) It will evaluate global sanitation practices
- How many cases of mpox has the Democratic Republic of Congo reported?
- A) Over 5,000
- B) Over 15,000
- C) Over 27,000
- D) Over 35,000
- What percentage of mpox cases this year have been reported in Congo?
- A) 50%
- B) 70%
- C) 85%
- D) Over 96%
- Which group is primarily affected by mpox according to the data?
- A) Adults over 50
- B) Teenagers
- C) Elderly individuals
- D) Children under 15