A leading World Health Organization (WHO) expert, Dr. Hans Kluge, reassures that the mpox outbreak can be controlled and stopped. Unlike COVID-19, authorities know how to contain its spread. The key is strong action and ensuring vaccines reach the most vulnerable areas.
Recently, a new variant, Clade Ib, was detected in Sweden and linked to an African outbreak. This variant has already claimed at least 450 lives in the Democratic Republic of Congo. Experts warn it may spread easily and cause severe disease.
However, Dr. Kluge emphasizes that the risk to the general population is low. “We won’t go into lockdown like during Covid,” he says. “We controlled the mpox outbreak in Europe in 2022 by engaging directly with affected communities.”
Dr. Kluge urges international action to tackle mpox together. “We can control and eliminate mpox globally, but we must put systems in place.” Currently, around 100 new cases of another variant, Clade II, are reported monthly in Europe.
If you’re traveling to areas in Africa where mpox is present, consider getting vaccinated before your trip. The WHO recommends targeted vaccination for high-risk groups in outbreak settings, not mass vaccination or mask-wearing. With swift action and fair distribution of vaccines, we can prevent the spread of the mpox outbreak and bring the epidemic under control.
The WHO closely monitors the situation and works with countries to enhance surveillance and response. By acting swiftly, we can prevent further spread and protect vulnerable populations. It’s time for global cooperation to tackle mpox head-on.
