UK Supports Congo and Thailand on Mpox Outbreak

The mpox virus outbreak has escalated dramatically in Africa, resulting in over 500 deaths and more than 17,000 infections in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) alone this year. The World Health Organization (WHO) has declared a global health emergency due to the rapid spread of a more virulent variant, which is particularly affecting children. Health officials in the DRC have expressed concerns that the European Union's promised vaccine supplies may not be sufficient to protect the entire population, urging for additional contributions. As the outbreak continues, the European Medicines Agency has recommended that the EU consider donating mpox vaccines to African nations to help contain the virus and prevent its spread to other regions. The EU has pledged 215,000 doses of the vaccine from Bavarian Nordic, while the United States has donated 50,000 doses to the DRC. However, health authorities warn that these amounts are inadequate given the rising case numbers, with Congo accounting for 94% of the total cases reported in Africa this year. The mpox virus, which is related to smallpox, spreads primarily through close contact, including sexual intercourse. The recent surge in cases has prompted health officials to call for urgent support, as the DRC has seen a significant increase in infections, with cases in neighboring Burundi also rising sharply. The WHO's declaration highlights the need for immediate action to address the growing threat posed by mpox across the continent. In response to the outbreak, countries outside Africa, including Thailand and the UK, are ramping up border controls and preparing for potential cases of the new variant. The situation remains critical as health authorities work to contain the virus and prevent further transmission.