MPOX Outbreak in the DRC and Beyond

SOURCE abcnews.go.com
More than 14,000 mpox cases reported in the DRC this year. WHO declared mpox a public health emergency of international concern. Cases rising dramatically in the DRC, with a new clade variant causing concerns. Africa CDC also declared mpox a public health emergency of continental security.

Key Points

  • More than 14,000 mpox cases reported in the DRC this year.
  • WHO declared mpox a public health emergency of international concern.
  • New clade variant (clade Ib) identified as causing the outbreak in the DRC.
  • Africa CDC also declared mpox a public health emergency of continental security.
  • JYNNEOS vaccine being used in the U.S. to prevent mpox.

Pros

  • Increased global awareness and response to the mpox outbreak.
  • Availability of JYNNEOS vaccine to prevent mpox infection.

Cons

  • Rising number of mpox cases in the DRC and neighboring countries.
  • Concerns about the rapid spread of a new clade variant.