On September 5, the World Health Organization declared that the outbreak of Africa’s MPOX is no longer considered an international health emergency.
The announcement was a relief for many in the LGBTQ community. One variant, Clade II, is rapidly spreading among men having sex with men (MSM). At the peak of the virus, the US reported mostly 500 cases Per day.
virus Cause Flu-like symptoms, and most notably painful rashes, lesions and scabs. During the 3-17 day incubation period, many people are unaware that they are infected until they have visible symptoms.
“My doctor said the lesion was killing tissue in my face.” Jeffrey ToddAn American diagnosed with MPOX in 2022.
Between January 2022 and March 2025 137,000 MPOX cases have been confirmed worldwide, with 317 deaths.
Countries with the highest percentage of MPOX incidents include the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC), Burundi, Sierra Leone and Uganda. However, Director Tedros Adhanom noted that everything reported a sustained decline.
“[We] A better understanding of transmission factors, severity risk factors, and the countries most affected have developed sustainable response capabilities,” Adhanom I said Reporter At the briefing.
Ending the state of emergency is a major step forward, but Adhanom emphasized that MPOX is a priority for WHO.
“Removing the emergency declaration means that the threat is over and we will not stop responding,” Adhanom said.
On a deep budget cut New proposals have been made with the US Department of Health and Human Services A $5 billion cut For the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, the fear of MPOX control by many will be as eroding as recent threats. Pepfer A program that addresses the global HIV epidemic.
However, the federal government recently signed $56 million order For additional MPOX vaccines.
CDC too I recommend it now MPOX vaccinations for many within the LGBTQ community.
Eligibility includes those exposed to MPOX people. Someone who had a sex partner in the past two weeks when diagnosed with MPOX. Gay, bisexual, or MSM men with multiple sex partners or with recent STD diagnosis. People who have had sex at commercial sex venues and events over the past six months. Or someone with a sex partner that meets these risk factors.
CDC advises contact address Your health provider, local pharmacy, or health department will find locations where the MPOX vaccine is available in your area.
Source: Metro Weekly – www.metroweekly.com
