New Mpox Outbreak Raises Concerns Worldwide

Health officials around the globe are closely monitoring a new outbreak of mpox, previously known as monkeypox, which is making headlines in Africa. So far, there have been over 17,000 confirmed and suspected cases in just this year alone, surpassing all of 2023. The World Health Organization (WHO) has labeled this situation a public health emergency.

Farhan Haq, the U.N. Deputy Spokesman, expressed concern about the rapid spread of mpox across several countries in Africa. He emphasized that this outbreak poses a significant threat, not just locally, but potentially on a global scale. In response, WHO has already allocated $1.45 million from its emergency fund and may turn to further resources if needed.

Despite the alarming declaration, Dr. Peter Chin-Hong, an infectious disease expert from UCSF, reassures Americans that there’s no reason to panic just yet. He clarified that the specific strain causing concern hasn’t been detected in the U.S. or the Bay Area, and the WHO’s announcement is more about rallying global resources to tackle the situation effectively.

Experts point out that this latest strain of mpox poses different risks compared to the one experienced during the 2022 outbreak. There’s evidence that it’s affecting a broader range of people this time, not just men and trans people who have sex with men, as in the previous cases. This important shift is why officials felt compelled to declare a public health emergency.

Even though the virus is spreading beyond Africa, the current risk level in the U.S. remains low. Dr. Chin-Hong recommends that those eligible should get vaccinated — there’s enough supply available. He specifically encourages men and trans individuals who have sex with men to get vaccinated if they haven’t already or to complete their vaccination series.