Monkeypox Gains Pandemic Status

The World Health Network—a group of scientists and citizens from around the globe focused on promoting health—has deemed monkeypox a pandemic. Thus far, more than 3,400 cases of monkeypox have been reported throughout 58 countries. The goal of declaring the virus a pandemic is to encourage a worldwide response to stop the spread of monkeypox. Mostly adults have been affected, but children are susceptible and may experience more severe signs and symptoms, including death. Animals, including pets, can also carry monkeypox, which can increase its ability to spread quickly. A DNA virus, monkeypox is similar to smallpox, causing fever, headache, muscle and back pain, malaise, chills, swollen lymph nodes, and a distinctive rash. At the June 25 meeting of the World Health Organization, however, members declined to label the monkeypox outbreak a Public Health Emergency of International Concern. Click here to read more.