CORONAVIRUS AND MONKEYPOX CASES ARE ON THE RISE, WARNS WHO

Thu 21 July 2022:

The number of cases of the coronavirus has doubled in the past six weeks, according to the head of the World Health Organization.

In addition, it noted that by 2022, reports of cases of monkeypox had increased to almost 14,000 across 70 countries.

According to Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, coronavirus deaths are rising as well, though currently not as quickly as cases.

At a media webinar, he said, “More cases mean we can expect to see more hospitalizations and deaths in the coming weeks.”

According to the head of the WHO, there are numerous sublineages of the omicron coronavirus, with BA.5 being the most contagious variant so far identified.

“We will see continued waves of infection, but we need not see continued waves of hospitalization and death. We have the tools to save lives — vaccines, tests, therapeutics, and public health tools,” said Tedros.

Regarding monkeypox, he said: “So far, five deaths have been reported, all in Africa.”

“Most cases continue to be reported from Europe, primarily among men who have sex with men.”

Tedros said that the International Health Regulations Emergency Committee will reconvene Thursday to consider if the monkeypox outbreak constitutes a public health emergency of international concern — the WHO’s highest level of emergency.

He said although there is a declining trend for monkeypox in some countries, others are seeing an increase, and six countries reported their first cases last week.

“This week, WHO updated its guidance for men who have sex with men to include additional advice and information for the affected community,” said Tedros.

SOURCE: INDEPENDENT PRESS AND NEWS AGENCIES

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