The World Health Organization (WHO) Emergency Committee will meet on August 14 in connection with the situation with monkeypox in Africa, the head of the organization, Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, said on the social network X.
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According to WHO, a monkeypox epidemic has been ongoing in the Democratic Republic of Congo for two years and could spread to neighboring countries.
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“On Wednesday, 14 August 2024, I will convene the Monkeypox Outbreak Emergency Committee. The Committee will provide me with its views on whether this outbreak constitutes a public health emergency of international concern,” the post says.
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A public health emergency of international concern (PHEIC) is an official WHO declaration of an emergency event that is determined to pose a public health concern to other nations as a result of the international spread of disease and potentially requiring a coordinated international response. Under the International Health Regulations 2005, states are required by law to respond promptly to PHEIC.
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Monkeypox is a rare viral infection that can also be transmitted between people. It is usually a mild illness and most people recover within a few weeks, but some may experience complications. Initial symptoms of monkeypox include fever, headache, muscle aches, back pain, swollen lymph nodes, chills and exhaustion. A rash may develop, often starting on the face and then spreading to other parts of the body.
