A concerning outbreak of a deadlier strain of mpox, also known as monkeypox, has been confirmed in four African countries, prompting alarm among health officials worldwide. The World Health Organization (WHO) has announced plans to convene an emergency committee to assess whether the outbreak constitutes a public health emergency of international concern.

The affected countries – the Democratic Republic of Congo, Uganda, Kenya, and Burundi – have reported a significant surge in mpox cases, with over 14,250 cases recorded this year alone. Notably, nearly 70% of cases in the Democratic Republic of Congo are among children under 15, raising concerns about the virus’s impact on vulnerable populations.

The mpox virus causes symptoms such as rashes, fever, chills, swollen lymph nodes, fatigue, muscle aches, and respiratory symptoms like sore throat and cough. While mpox is typically spread through close contact with infected individuals, including via sex, the current outbreak is primarily affecting men who have sex with men.

In response to the outbreak, the WHO recommends vaccination for high-risk individuals, including health workers, men who have sex with men, and people with multiple sex partners. However, vaccine availability and access remain significant challenges in the affected regions.

As the situation unfolds, global health authorities are closely monitoring the outbreak, and the WHO’s emergency committee will convene soon to determine the appropriate response. The international community is urged to remain vigilant and take proactive measures to prevent further spread of the virus.