The World Health Organization (WHO) on Wednesday declared mpox a global public health emergency for the second time in two years, following an outbreak of the virus in parts of Africa.

That comes as health officials also warn of a sharp rise in cases in Toronto.

On Tuesday, the Africa Centers for Disease Control and Prevention announced that the mpox outbreaks were a public health emergency, with more than 500 deaths so far this year, and called for international help to stop the virus’ spread.

While not considered strictly a sexually transmitted infection, it is spread through contact with bodily fluids or scabs and contaminated personal items like clothing, bedding, sex toys or toothbrushes, according to Toronto Public Health.

  • Einar
    link
    fedilink
    English
    arrow-up
    23
    ·
    30 days ago

    The general public isn’t just the US, though.

    • TransplantedSconie
      link
      fedilink
      English
      arrow-up
      9
      ·
      30 days ago

      Point taken, but at least they will deliver the vaccines and PPE.

      Last out break got to 70 countries before it was stopped. Hopefully we nip it in the bud.