WHO warns of fast-spreading monkeypox variant, Türkiye reports no cases
The WHO warns of a fast-spreading Monkeypox outbreak in Africa, with a new variant raising concerns. (AA Photo)
The World Health Organization (WHO) has issued a warning regarding the rapidly escalating outbreak of monkeypox in Africa, raising global concerns.
In response to this situation, Türkiye’s Directorate of Communications’ Center for Combating Disinformation (DMM) has provided an update on the disease’s status within the country.
New variant, spreading faster
Monkeypox, a viral disease transmitted from infected animals to humans, has seen a significant resurgence, particularly in Africa. WHO Director-General Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus recently convened an emergency meeting to address the situation and assess whether the outbreak, which has extended beyond the Democratic Republic of Congo, might pose an international health threat.
A newly identified variant of the virus has been reported to spread more easily, especially among children, leading to heightened alarm.
Jean Kaseya, director-general of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), highlighted the alarming rise in Monkeypox cases across Africa, noting a 79% increase between 2022 and 2023, and a staggering 160% surge from 2023 to 2024.
Situation in Türkiye
Amid rising public concern in Türkiye, the Center for Combating Disinformation (DMM) has reassured that no cases of monkeypox have been detected in the country this year.
In a statement shared on social media, the DMM confirmed that the WHO is considering declaring an international emergency due to the new monkeypox variant but emphasized that the Turkish Ministry of Health has implemented all necessary precautions.
The ministry is also actively engaged in preliminary research and preparations to address any potential threats from diseases and viruses, including monkeypox, according to the statement.
