WHO Reports 3,135 Monkeypox Cases in September, 12 Deaths Recorded

The World Health Organization (WHO) has confirmed a total of 3,135 monkeypox cases worldwide for the month of September, with more than 80 percent of these cases reported from the African region. This data was released in a report dated October 30, 2023. The report also noted that these cases originated from 42 countries and included 12 fatalities.

Between January and September of this year, the cumulative number of confirmed monkeypox cases has reached 44,299 across 93 nations, leading to a total of 180 deaths. The report emphasizes the ongoing global health challenge posed by the disease, which has seen significant cases in various regions.

New Cases and Variants Reported

Notably, the report highlighted that several countries, including Malaysia, Namibia, the Netherlands, Portugal, and Spain, have reported the detection of the clade Ib monkeypox virus (MPXV) for the first time. This indicates a potential spread and emergence of new variants of the virus.

Additionally, the WHO noted new imported cases of monkeypox attributed to clade Ib MPXV among travelers. These cases have been documented in Belgium, Canada, Germany, Italy, Qatar, and Spain. The presence of these new cases raises concerns about the virus’s transmission dynamics and the necessity for continued vigilance and preventive measures.

Global Response and Implications

As countries around the world grapple with the ongoing public health implications of monkeypox, the WHO continues to stress the importance of surveillance and vaccination efforts. The organization has been working closely with affected nations to monitor the situation and implement control measures.

With the rise in cases, health authorities are encouraged to enhance their response strategies, including public awareness campaigns, to mitigate the spread of the virus. The WHO’s findings underscore the need for a coordinated international effort to address monkeypox and protect global health.