Mpox is no longer classified as a global health emergency by the WHO

The World Health Organization (WHO) announced, this Thursday (11), that Mpox, a disease formerly known as monkeypox, is no longer classified as a global emergency by the entity.

“However, as with Covid-19, this does not mean the job is over. Mpox continues to pose significant public health challenges that need a robust, proactive and sustainable response,” said WHO Director-General Tedros Adhanom.

As of May 2022, several countries where Mpox is not endemic have reported cases, including countries in the Americas. On 23 July 2022, the Director-General of WHO declared the Mpox outbreak in several countries as a Public Health Emergency of International Concern (PHEIC).

“While we welcome the downward trend in Mpox cases globally, the virus continues to affect communities in all regions, including Africa, where transmission is still not well understood,” added Adhanom.

WHO recommends integrating prevention and care into existing health programs to enable continued access to care and a rapid response to deal with future outbreaks.

preventive measures

The disease is characterized by rashes or skin lesions that are usually concentrated on the penis, anus, mouth, face, palms of the hands and soles of the feet.

The Ministry of Health recommends avoiding close contact with people suspected or diagnosed with the disease, in addition to hand hygiene with soap and water or alcohol gel before eating or touching the face as a preventive measure.

Faced with any suspicious symptoms, people should seek medical attention at Basic Health Units (UBSs) or Emergency Care Units (UPA) for evaluation.

During the consultation, it is important to inform if there has been close contact with someone with suspected or confirmed disease. Based on these records collected during the consultation, the specialist will be able to order a diagnostic test.

In update