The World Health Organization declared a global emergency for monkeypox | Highest alert level

World Health Organization (WHO) It activated the highest level of alert on Saturday in an effort to contain the outbreak of monkeypox, which has already affected nearly 17,000 people in 74 countries. This was announced by its CEO.

“I have decided to declare a public health emergency of international scope”Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus said at a press conference. In turn, he emphasized that the risks in the world are relatively moderate, with the exception of Europe where they are high.

the official make it clear The expert committee was unable to reach consensus and remained divided on the need for the highest level of preparednessBut as the Director-General of the World Health Organization, he left the final decision in his hands.

“It’s a call to action, but it’s not the first”For his part, said Mike Ryan, head of the emergency department at the World Health Organization, who expressed hope that the alert would allow for collective action against the disease.

Since early May, when it was first discovered The smallpox earthquake outside African countries where the disease is endemic has infected more than 16,836 people in 74 countriesaccording to the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) as of July 22.

In Argentina, 13 cases of monkeypox have been confirmed as of July 14Of which 12 Had a history of travel before symptoms appeared. This was stated by the Ministry of Health.

Monkeypox is not a sexually transmitted disease, but Outside endemic areas, it affects MSMwith some exceptions.

It was first discovered in humans in the year 1970. This type of smallpox is less dangerous and contagious than smallpox that was eradicated in 1980.

The disease first manifests itself as a high temperature and quickly develops into a rash with crusting. Most of the time It is benign and usually heals spontaneously. Two or three weeks later.