Environment
WHO Declares Mpox a Global Public Health Emergency As Cases Surge
The World Health Organization (WHO) has redeclared mpox a global public health emergency as cases escalate in Africa and rise in other countries, including Canada. This declaration follows a significant surge in cases since January 2024, prompting health officials to describe the outbreak as “unprecedented.”
In Canada, Toronto Public Health is urging eligible residents to get vaccinated against mpox after a sharp rise in cases. As of July 31, there have been 93 confirmed cases, compared to 21 cases during the same period in 2023.
Dr. Mark Loeb, an infectious disease physician at McMaster University, expressed concern about the virus’s potential to continue spreading, particularly in under-resourced countries. “There’s an explosion of cases in Central Africa… and it’s affecting very young children. The high rates of mortality with this strain make it crucial to get it under control.”
Dr. Rita Shahin, an associate medical officer with Toronto Public Health, explained that mpox causes symptoms such as a rash at the site of exposure, fever, headache, muscle aches, and feeling generally unwell. Most people recover within two to four weeks, but in a small number of cases, it can be more serious, leading to hospitalization.
Mpox is spread through contact with bodily fluids or contaminated personal items like clothing, bedding, sex toys, or toothbrushes. It is not considered strictly a sexually transmitted infection but can be spread through intimate contact.
The virus is characterized by two distinct genetic variants known as clades I and II, which are endemic to central and west Africa. Clade I is more transmissible and causes a higher rate of severe infections, while Clade II is considered less severe. The ongoing global mpox outbreak is caused by Clade II.
In Canada, the vaccine Imvamune is an authorized shot used for immunization against smallpox and mpox in adults 18 years of age and older who are at high risk for exposure. Vaccination involves two doses of the vaccine to provide the best protection, with the second dose being taken 28 days after the first one.
Dr. Shahin emphasized that individuals who were immunized in 2022 are still protected and do not need a booster dose. However, those who haven’t been vaccinated should get the vaccine, and individuals experiencing severe mpox symptoms can receive antiviral treatment.
The Africa Centers for Disease Control and Prevention declared the increasing spread of mpox across the continent a health emergency, warning the virus might ultimately spill across international borders. Africa has reported a staggering surge in mpox cases this year, with at least 14,000 infections and 524 deaths — a 160% increase compared to the same period last year.
The WHO said mpox was recently identified for the first time in four East African countries: Burundi, Kenya, Rwanda, and Uganda. All of those outbreaks were linked to the epidemic in the Democratic Republic of Congo. In the Ivory Coast and South Africa, health authorities have reported outbreaks of a different and less dangerous version of mpox that spread worldwide in 2022.
Earlier this year, scientists reported the emergence of a new form of mpox in a Congolese mining town that can kill up to 10% of people and may spread more easily. Unlike in previous mpox outbreaks, where lesions were mostly seen on the chest, hands, and feet, the new form of mpox causes milder symptoms and lesions on the genitals, making it harder to spot and potentially leading to further spread.
In a bid to reduce the country’s planet-warming emissions, the UK government has announced a £180 million investment in solar panels for hundreds of schools and hospitals across the country.
This move is part of the government’s efforts to achieve its long-term climate goals and reduce reliance on fossil fuels.
The investment, which is the first major project from Great British Energy, the government’s new state owned energy company, is expected to provide solar panels for 200 schools and 200 hospitals.
This will not only help reduce energy bills but also cut carbon emissions and promote sustainability.
According to Energy Secretary Ed Miliband, “Great British Energy’s first major project will be to help our vital public institutions save hundreds of millions on bills to reinvest on the frontline.”
He added that the project will help reduce the financial pressure of energy bills on schools and hospitals.
The announcement has been welcomed by schools, unions, and NHS estate managers, who have long been advocating for measures to reduce energy costs.
Paul Whiteman, NAHT general secretary, said that the investment is a “step in the right direction” and will help schools manage energy bills, which have been a significant financial burden in recent years.
However, not everyone is optimistic about the investment.
Andrew Bowie, shadow energy secretary, argued that the government’s net zero plans will make the country “poorer.”
He claimed that the investment will lead to increased reliance on foreign powers like Russia.
In contrast, energy experts believe that investing in renewable energy will reduce the UK’s reliance on imports.
Jess Ralston, energy analyst at the Energy and Climate Intelligence Unit, said that the investment in solar panels will improve energy security and reduce the amount of gas imported from countries like Russia.
The first solar panels are expected to be installed by the end of the summer, with a focus on areas of “highest need.”
Hurricane Milton ravaged Florida with fierce winds, flooding, and tornadoes, leaving 16 dead and millions without power. Communities face widespread destruction, as stories of survival and rescue emerge, including daring evacuations and rebuilding efforts. As officials warn against disaster sightseeing, residents and authorities focus on recovery. The storm highlights the urgent need for climate action and preparedness, as Floridians confront the realities of living in a storm-prone state.
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As Nigeria commemorates its 64th Independence anniversary, the stark contrast between celebration and the persistent challenges of corruption, mismanagement, and unfulfilled promises becomes evident.
The editorial revisits historical attempts at reform, such as the Independent Corrupt Practices Commission’s (ICPC) prosecutions and the House of Representatives’ inquiry into the unfulfilled $14.5 million aircraft repair contract. Many of these initiatives have faded from public memory, leaving questions about accountability unresolved.
High-profile corruption cases, including the Halliburton scandal involving alleged bribes of $180 million, highlight systemic failures within the political landscape.
The editorial emphasizes the need for collective action from citizens, civil society, and the media to demand transparency and accountability. It warns that without addressing these entrenched failures, Nigeria’s path toward democracy and good governance may continue to be fraught with unfulfilled promises.
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Diaspora Diva – Aisha Bowe
Diaspora Watch – Vol. 40
UK Invests £180 Million In Solar Panels For Schools And Hospitals
Diaspora Watch 20th Edition (October 14-20, 2024): Your Trusted Source for Global News and Insights
Revolutionary mRNA Lung Cancer Vaccine Trial Offers New Hope To Thousands
