Fri Nov 22 20:01:06 UTC 2024: ## WHO Maintains Highest Alert Level for Mpox Amidst Rising Case Numbers
**Geneva, Switzerland** – The World Health Organization (WHO) announced today that it will maintain its highest level of alert for the mpox virus, citing a continued surge in cases and ongoing geographical spread. A committee of independent experts made the decision following a meeting in Geneva, three months after the initial declaration of a public health emergency of international concern in August.
The WHO stated that the decision was based on the increasing number of mpox cases, the expanding geographic reach of the outbreak, operational challenges in affected areas, and the necessity for a coordinated global response. While a recent vaccine rollout shows some promise, the WHO is awaiting further data to assess its full impact.
The outbreak, primarily concentrated in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) and neighboring countries, has caused significant concern. The African Union’s health watchdog previously warned that the situation remains uncontrolled and requires increased resources to prevent a potential pandemic, potentially exceeding the scale of COVID-19.
Although mpox is typically a mild illness, it can be fatal in rare instances. Hundreds of deaths have been attributed to the virus in the DRC and surrounding countries (Burundi, Kenya, Rwanda, Nigeria, and Uganda) over the past year. Transmission occurs through close contact, sexual activity, and airborne infectious particles. The virus spreads via the lymph nodes, causing swelling and ultimately resulting in rashes or lesions. The WHO emphasizes the need for continued global collaboration to control the outbreak.
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