Monkey smallpox spreads to 19 countries, deploying limited vaccinations

According to Straits Times, The World Health Organization (WHO) said on May 24 that the outbreak of monkeypox cases outside Africa could be contained, as many governments said they would roll out vaccinations. limited to combat the increase in viral infections.

The moves come as there have been 237 cases of monkeypox recorded from 19 countries, including both laboratory-confirmed and suspected cases, which are clinically evident but pending. test results.

Samples of monkeypox samples – Photo: REUTERS

According to Reuters, WHO officials say the number is expected to continue to rise, but most infections so far have not been severe. Scientists also do not think that the disease can progress to a pandemic like Covid-19.

Unlike SARS-CoV-2, which is transmitted through the respiratory tract, monkeypox virus is only transmitted through contact with secretions between animals and humans, through touching bodily fluids, fluid from wounds, and sores. Broken water from sick people, or sharing personal hygiene items accidentally contaminated with secretions… that’s also the reason for sexually transmitted diseases in some recently identified cases.

Also on May 24, the UK reported 14 more cases, bringing the total number of cases to 70 since May 7. The United Arab Emirates (UAE) and the Czech Republic also recorded the first cases.

“We encourage all Member States to strengthen surveillance for monkeypox to see how transmissible it is and understand where the disease is going,” said the Director of Risk Preparedness. WHO Sylvie Briand Global Infectious Diseases. She added that this outbreak was “unusual”, but “preventable”.

WHO is working on new guidance for countries on vaccination strategies and is convening additional meetings to assist member states in addressing the situation.

The human smallpox vaccine was what simultaneously prevented monkeypox. It was once theorized that the fading effect in the community of this vaccine contributed to the spread. Because after the global eradication of smallpox, WHO stopped recommending this vaccine in 1980.

Some countries stopped their smallpox vaccination strategy a few years earlier, and some stopped after a few years. Therefore, people in their 30s and under to over 40 do not get smallpox shots as children.

World Health Assembly re-elects WHO Director-General

According to WHO, WHO member states on May 24 agreed to re-elect Dr. Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus to the position of Director-General of WHO for a second term. Dr. Tedrods was elected to this position for the first time in 2017. .

Dr. Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus – Photo: BBC

“This honor comes with great responsibility and I am committed to working with all countries, my colleagues around the world and our key partners, to ensure WHO delivers on its mission.” mission to promote health, keep the world safe, and serve the vulnerable.”

The new term of Dr. Tedros officially begins on August 16