WHO Declares Mpox Outbreak an Emergency
Confirmed cases of the infectious disease mpox, formerly known as monkeypox, in 15 African countries this year are nearly double the number of mpox cases in all of 2023, the World Health Organization reported in August.
The WHO has deemed the outbreak of 2,030 confirmed cases in 2024 a public health emergency of international concern, or "an extraordinary event which is determined to constitute a public health risk . . . through the international spread of disease and to potentially require a coordinated international response."
Skuld advises its members that crews on vessels calling African ports should avoid interacting with local fishermen or tradesmen approaching the crew and refrain from buying any meat from exotic or wild animals. In general, locals’ access to the vessel should be kept to the necessary minimum.