WHO Reports 3,135 Monkeypox Cases Worldwide in September

The World Health Organization (WHO) reported a total of 3,135 confirmed monkeypox cases globally in September 2023. The majority of these cases, over 80 percent, originated from the African region. This report, released on October 30, 2023, highlights a concerning trend as the virus continues to spread across various countries.

The confirmed cases in September emerged from 42 countries, resulting in 12 deaths. This brings the total number of confirmed cases from January through September to 44,299, with 180 deaths reported across 93 nations. The WHO’s findings emphasize the need for continued vigilance and response efforts to contain the virus.

Emerging Cases and New Regions Affected

According to the WHO report, several countries have detected the clade Ib monkeypox virus (MPXV) for the first time. These countries include Malaysia, Namibia, the Netherlands, Portugal, and Spain. The report also highlights new imported cases of monkeypox due to clade Ib MPXV, identified among travelers in Belgium, Canada, Germany, Italy, Qatar, and Spain.

The increasing number of cases and the emergence of new regions affected by the virus underscore the importance of international cooperation in monitoring and controlling the spread of monkeypox. Public health officials are urged to enhance surveillance and response strategies to mitigate further outbreaks.

As the situation develops, the WHO continues to provide updates and guidance to member states to aid in their public health responses. The organization stresses the significance of vaccination, education, and timely reporting to combat the ongoing challenges posed by monkeypox globally.