WHO set to convene specialists amid growing monkeypox cases across Africa.

The World Health Organization (WHO) will assemble an expert panel to determine whether the M-pox virus's rapid spread in Africa deserves a global emergency declaration, WHO Director-General Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus declared on Wednesday.

At a press event in Geneva, Mr. Tedros underscored the gravity of the issue, citing an increase in M-pox cases recorded outside of the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC). He indicated that he has resolved to consult with impartial specialists on the subject "as soon as possible."

The Africa Centres for Disease Control and Prevention (Africa CDC) has reported an alarming spike in M-pox cases, with the virus being found in ten African nations this year, including the Democratic Republic of the Congo, which accounts for more than 96% of all recorded cases and deaths. The organization reported a 160% spike in cases over the same time last year, as well as a 19% jump in fatalities.

According to Africa CDC authorities, children under the age of 15 account for over 70% of illnesses and 85% of deaths in the Democratic Republic of Congo. Burundi and Rwanda have also confirmed new cases of the virus, with Kenya and the Central African Republic reporting additional cases.

In response to the situation, Mr. Tedros said that the WHO has issued $1 million (£788,000) from its emergency budget to help fight M-pox.

Earlier this year, scientists discovered a new, more fatal strain of M-pox in a Congolese mining town, raising fears about its potential to spread more quickly. The most lethal type of the virus can kill up to 10% of those affected and is spread largely through close contact with infected people, including sexual interaction.

M-pox was designated a worldwide emergency by the World Health Organization in 2022 after spreading to over 70 nations, especially affecting homosexual and bisexual males.

Source: Lead News Online