Monkeypox: World Health Organization Makes a Decision

Al-Anbat- MAYS ALSHAWABKEH 

On Saturday, WHO Director-General Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus is anticipated to make a statement regarding the organization's need to release its highest level of preparedness in response to the outbreak of monkeypox. 

Ghebreyesus announced in a statement Friday night that a virtual press conference will be held at 13.00 GMT on Saturday. 

According to data from the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) as of July 20, more than 15,300 cases of monkeypox had been reported in 72 nations.

The Health Organization should not declare a health emergency of worldwide concern, according to the majority of experts at the first meeting on June 23.

Based on the recommendations of the Emergency Committee, the WHO Director-General has the authority to declare a potential public health emergency of international significance, the highest degree of alert available.

Experts gathered in Geneva on Thursday. The Emergency Committee investigated epidemiological indicators to ascertain the most effective ways to stop the deteriorating health condition. 

During a press conference on Wednesday, the director of the organization stated, "Whatever the Committee's recommendation, WHO will continue to do all possible to stop monkeypox and save lives."

Since the first instances of monkeypox were noticed in early May, the pandemic has started to expand outside of the nations in Central and Western Africa where the virus is endemic. Then, while Europe served as its hub, it spread around the globe. 

In comparison to smallpox, which was eradicated in 1980, monkeypox, which was first identified in humans in 1970, is less harmful and contagious.

In order to advance virus research and development, the UN health agency collaborates with member nations and specialists.

Bavarian Nordic, a Danish business that is the only facility authorized to create a monkeypox vaccine, revealed on Tuesday that it has received an order for 1.5 million doses from an unnamed European nation, with an additional 2.5 million doses coming from the United States. The majority of these doses will be delivered in 2023.