WHO Declares Ampox a Global Health Emergency for Second Consecutive Year

The World Health Organization (WHO) has declared ampox a global health emergency for the second consecutive year, citing the ongoing outbreak in Africa and the need for international cooperation to combat the viral infection.

The outbreak, which originated in the Democratic Republic of Congo, has since spread to neighboring countries, including Burundi, Kenya, Rwanda, and Uganda. Ampox is a highly contagious disease that spreads through contact with an infected person and can be fatal in some cases.

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Symptoms of ampox include fever and blister-like lesions, and the disease has already claimed over 500 lives in Africa this year, with more than 17,000 suspected cases reported.

“The ampox outbreak is a serious concern, and we need international cooperation to bring it under control,” said the WHO Director-General. “We have released $1.5 million to support the response efforts, but more is needed to prevent further spread and save lives.”

The African Health Organization has also declared the outbreak a disaster, highlighting the urgent need for action.

The WHO is working closely with affected countries, health partners, and other stakeholders to coordinate the response efforts, including vaccination campaigns, contact tracing, and community engagement.

The global health community is urged to support the response efforts to control the outbreak and prevent further spread of ampox.