Mpox, previously referred to as monkeypox, is an infectious disease caused by the Orthopoxvirus. This viral illness primarily spreads through close contact, which includes skin-to-skin interactions, respiratory droplets, and contaminated objects. In recent years, a rising number of outbreaks have been associated with sexual transmission networks.
The disease was first documented in humans in 1970 in the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) and remains endemic in certain regions of Central and West Africa.
The World Health Organization (WHO) recently declared a Public Health Emergency of International Concern (PHEIC) following an uptick in mpox cases in the DRC and its neighboring countries. This global alert signifies that the outbreak presents a considerable risk to public health across the world, necessitating coordinated international efforts to mitigate its spread.
This declaration serves as a call to action for nations to enhance surveillance measures, bolster preparedness, and allocate resources effectively to tackle the ongoing crisis.
The rapid proliferation of a new mpox strain could pose significant public health challenges, particularly in nations with limited healthcare infrastructure. This situation might result in heightened transmission rates, social disruption, and economic repercussions.
Furthermore, the outbreak could lead to travel restrictions and the implementation of stricter health regulations on a global scale.
This declaration by WHO underscores the necessity for prompt international collaboration. It emphasizes that neglecting localized health issues can escalate into global crises. A coordinated response is crucial to prevent further escalation, facilitate vaccine distribution, and strengthen global health security.
WHO is leading the charge to contain the outbreak by offering technical support, coordinating vaccine donations, and ensuring access to essential medical resources. Additionally, WHO is collaborating with various countries to enhance their healthcare responses and guarantee equitable access to resources, particularly for lower-income regions.
Q1. What is mpox and how is it transmitted?
Answer: Mpox, formerly known as monkeypox, is a viral disease that spreads through close contact, respiratory droplets, and contaminated objects. Recent outbreaks have been associated with sexual transmission networks.
Q2. Why did WHO declare a PHEIC for mpox?
Answer: WHO declared a PHEIC due to a rise in mpox cases in the DRC, indicating a significant public health risk globally and the need for coordinated international action.
Q3. What are the implications of the mpox outbreak?
Answer: The outbreak could lead to increased transmission, social disruption, economic impact, and potential travel restrictions, particularly affecting countries with limited healthcare resources.
Q4. How does the WHO plan to manage the outbreak?
Answer: WHO is providing technical support, coordinating vaccine donations, and facilitating access to medical resources to strengthen healthcare responses globally, especially in lower-income regions.
Q5. What is the significance of international collaboration in health emergencies?
Answer: International collaboration is vital to address health emergencies effectively, as it helps prevent localized issues from escalating into global crises and ensures equitable resource distribution.
Question 1: What virus causes mpox?
A) Measles virus
B) Orthopoxvirus
C) Influenza virus
D) Hepatitis virus
Correct Answer: B
Question 2: In which year was mpox first identified in humans?
A) 1965
B) 1970
C) 1985
D) 1990
Correct Answer: B
Question 3: What is the primary route of transmission for mpox?
A) Airborne transmission
B) Waterborne transmission
C) Close contact
D) Vector-borne transmission
Correct Answer: C
Question 4: What does PHEIC stand for?
A) Public Health Emergency of International Concern
B) Public Health Evaluation of International Cases
C) Primary Health Emergency in International Communities
D) None of the above
Correct Answer: A
Question 5: Which organization declared the mpox outbreak a global health emergency?
A) UNICEF
B) WHO
C) CDC
D) Red Cross
Correct Answer: B
Question 6: What could be a potential consequence of the mpox outbreak?
A) Increased healthcare funding
B) Enhanced international travel
C) Stricter health regulations
D) None of the above
Correct Answer: C
Question 7: What role is WHO playing in the mpox outbreak?
A) Providing entertainment
B) Coordinating vaccine donations
C) Increasing tourism
D) None of the above
Correct Answer: B
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