WHO: Monkeypox Outbreak Could End in Six Months

The World Health Organization (WHO) has stated that the current monkeypox outbreak, which has its epicenter in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), could potentially be brought under control within the next six months. The organization’s Director-General, Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, expressed optimism, emphasizing the importance of strong government leadership in this endeavor. The outbreak has already recorded over 18,000 cases and at least 629 deaths in 2024. However, Dr. Tedros acknowledged that political instability in the DRC remains a significant obstacle. While the outbreak’s epicenter lies in the DRC, cases have also been reported in other countries, including Burundi, Rwanda, Uganda, Kenya, Sweden, and Thailand. The WHO has declared the outbreak a public health emergency and is actively working to provide access to vaccines and diagnostics.