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Mpox Outbreak in Africa on the Rise, WHO Considers Declaring Public Health Emergency

Concern Grows as Disease Spreads Rapidly

The World Health Organization (WHO) is closely monitoring a growing outbreak of mpox in Africa, which could potentially lead to the declaration of a public health emergency of international concern. In 2022, the WHO declared mpox a global emergency after it spread to over 70 countries, primarily affecting gay and bisexual men.

Previous Declaration and Outbreak Impacts

In July 2022, the WHO first declared mpox, formerly known as monkeypox, a public health emergency of international concern. This declaration triggered global concern and prompted countries to implement measures to contain the spread of the virus.

The outbreak resulted in a public health emergency of international concern (PHEIC) from July 2022 to May 2023. During this time, the WHO convened expert meetings to assess the situation and guide its response.