Mpox

Mpox: The Not-So-Funny Monkey Business That's Got the World Talking!

Mpox, formerly known as monkeypox, is back in the headlines with a looming global emergency declaration! What does this mean for us Kiwis? Let's break it down!

It's official! The World Health Organization (WHO) has declared mpox, formerly known as monkeypox, a global public health emergency for the second time. This alarming announcement comes on the heels of a dangerous outbreak in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), where a fast-spreading variant has been detected. As the canvas of this outbreak expands across neighboring countries, the urgency to monitor and respond to this viral menace has never been clearer. The WHO's Director-General, Dr. Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, didn't mince words, emphasizing the need for global vigilance against mpox's resurgence.

But what does this mean for people, especially right here in New Zealand? According to Dr. Michael Baker from the University of Otago, Kiwis shouldn't panic just yet. While the outbreak in Africa is tragic, with limited resources to combat the virus making the situation dire, the risk of widespread transmission to New Zealand remains low. It’s an ongoing battle in Africa, but experts cautiously suggest that our geographical isolation offers a degree of safety for Kiwis.

As the WHO chief sounded the alarm regarding outbreaks of different clades of mpox in Africa, the Africa Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (Africa CDC) echoed the sentiments, stressing that mpox has been identified in at least 13 countries this year. With over 96% of reported cases and deaths concentrated in the DRC, this epidemic has shed light on the pressing need for global collaboration in addressing health threats. The WHO urges nations to ramp up surveillance, implement preventive measures, and provide support to affected regions.

In more light-hearted news, did you know that the term "mpox" was coined partially to reflect the need for broader awareness and awareness beyond its previous, somewhat stigmatizing name? And here’s a fun fact: Mpox isn’t exclusively found in Africa; there have been isolated cases reported worldwide, proving that this little viral hitchhiker has quite the travel itinerary! So while we all keep a close eye on the developments surrounding mpox, let’s remember to keep it light and look out for each other – after all, laughter is the best medicine!