Monkeypox Outbreak in Africa

SOURCE www.nbcnews.com
The World Health Organization declared monkeypox a global public health emergency due to a recent outbreak in the Democratic Republic of Congo that has spread to neighboring countries in Africa. Two viral clades of monkeypox are causing concern, with one strain being more transmissible and severe than the other. Vaccines are available in the U.S. but not widely accessible in affected African regions.

Key Points

  • Monkeypox declared global public health emergency by WHO.
  • Two viral clades causing outbreaks in Africa, one more severe and transmissible than the other.
  • Vaccine available in the U.S. but not widely accessible in affected African regions.

Pros

  • WHO's declaration can accelerate research, funding, and international cooperation to contain the disease.
  • Vaccine available in the U.S. is effective against both clades of monkeypox.

Cons

  • More than 17,000 suspected cases and 517 deaths reported in Africa this year due to monkeypox.
  • One strain of monkeypox is more transmissible and severe, causing concern for further spread.