Monkeypox: WHO declares global health emergency as cases continue to rise

 Monkeypox: WHO declares global health emergency as cases continue to rise

On July 23, 2023, the World Health Organization (WHO) declared monkeypox a global health emergency of international concern (PHEIC). The PHEIC is the WHO's highest level of alert for a public health event.The declaration comes as the monkeypox outbreak continues to spread around the world. As of August 4, 2023, there have been over 9,000 cases of monkeypox reported in 75 countries.

What is monkeypox?

Monkeypox is a rare viral disease that is similar to smallpox. The virus is transmitted through close contact with an infected person or animal, or through contact with contaminated materials.

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Symptoms of monkeypox

The symptoms of monkeypox typically appear 7-14 days after exposure to the virus. The most common symptoms include:

• Fever
• Headache
• Muscle aches
• Backache
• Swollen lymph nodes
• Rash

The rash usually begins on the face and then spreads to other parts of the body. The rash can be itchy and painful.

Treatment for monkeypox

There is no specific treatment for monkeypox. Most people recover from the virus on their own within 2-4 weeks. However, some people may develop serious complications, such as pneumonia or encephalitis.

Prevention of monkeypox

The best way to prevent monkeypox is to avoid close contact with infected people and animals. To reduce your risk of exposure, you should:

• Wash your hands frequently with soap and water.
• Avoid contact with the rash of an infected person.
• Avoid contact with contaminated materials, such as bedding or clothing.
• Avoid contact with wild animals.
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What is the WHO doing to respond to the monkeypox outbreak?

The WHO is working with countries around the world to respond to the monkeypox outbreak. The WHO is providing technical assistance to countries to help them with surveillance, contact tracing, and prevention efforts. The WHO is also working to develop a vaccine for monkeypox.

What can you do to help prevent the spread of monkeypox?

There are a number of things you can do to help prevent the spread of monkeypox:

• Get vaccinated against monkeypox, if available.
• Avoid close contact with infected people and animals.
• Wash your hands frequently with soap and water.
• Avoid contact with the rash of an infected person.
• Avoid contact with contaminated materials, such as bedding or clothing.
• Avoid contact with wild animals.

If you think you may have been exposed to monkeypox, contact your healthcare provider immediately.