Hans Kluge, the Regional Director of the World Health Organization in Europe, stated today, Tuesday, that "monkeypox, regardless of whether it is from the new or old strain, is not a new pandemic like COVID, as authorities know how to control its spread." He said at a press conference, "We can, and must, tackle monkeypox together." He further added, "Will we choose to activate systems to control and eradicate monkeypox globally? Or will we enter another cycle of panic and negligence? How we respond now and in the coming years will serve as a crucial test for Europe and the world."
Monkeypox is a viral infection that results in pus-filled blisters, with symptoms resembling those of influenza, typically mild but can lead to death. The sub-strain 1 of monkeypox has raised global concern due to its seeming faster spread through close routine contact. One case of the new strain was confirmed last week in Sweden, linked to an increasing outbreak in Africa. Kluge noted that focusing on the new sub-strain 1 gives Europe an opportunity to refocus on the less dangerous sub-strain 2, which includes offering better public health advice and surveillance. He added that nearly 100 new cases of sub-strain 2 are currently being recorded each month in Europe.
