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.
Despite contributing a mere 0.03% to global greenhouse gas emissions, Pacific Small Island Developing States (PSIDS) are setting a powerful example in climate leadership.
A new report by the UN Climate Change Regional Collaboration Centre for Asia and the Pacific reveals that these nations are making significant strides in meeting the goals of the Paris Agreement.
The 14 PSIDS have demonstrated their commitment to reducing emissions and promoting sustainable development.
All 14 countries submitted their first round of Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs) by the end of 2015, with 11 submitting updated or enhanced versions since then.
These NDCs outline ambitious targets in renewable energy, sustainable transport, and nature-based solutions.
Six PSIDS aim for 100% renewable energy, showcasing a commitment to reducing dependence on fossil fuels.
Countries are also exploring eco-friendly transportation options to minimize emissions and initiatives focus on preserving and restoring natural ecosystems to mitigate the effects of climate change.
The Pacific Island nations are reframing climate ambition as a regional issue, intersecting with identity, sovereignty, and development.
The 2050 Strategy for the Blue Pacific Continent highlights the importance of ocean-based solutions and regional collaboration.
Several countries in the region are taking bold steps to address climate change.
Fiji was the first country to ratify the Paris Agreement and preside over a UN Climate Conference (COP 23).
The Marshall Islands was an early submitter of Intended Nationally Determined Contributions (INDC) and has integrated youth participation and Indigenous knowledge into its national climate agenda.
Papua New Guinea was the first to formally submit an NDC, with a target of 100% renewable energy by 2030.
Vanuatu is committed to rapidly phasing out fossil fuels and transitioning to a circular economy, with NDC targets conditional on scaled-up international support.
As the global community prepares for the third round of NDCs, the Pacific Island nations offer a clear message: the next generation of NDCs must aim higher and go further, turning ambition into action and action into survival.
With climate change posing existential threats to these nations, their commitment to limiting warming to 1.5°C is not just about reducing emissions – it’s a matter of survival.
The Federal Government of Nigeria has taken a significant step towards mitigating the impact of flood disasters with the adoption of the National Flood Insurance Policy (NFIP).
Announced on June 26, 2025, in Abuja, the policy aims to provide a financial safety net for individuals, businesses, and communities affected by flood-related disasters.
The NFIP will provide financial protection to individuals, businesses, and communities, enabling swift recovery from flood-induced losses and ensuring long-term resilience.
This proactive approach to flood risk management emphasizes preparedness and mitigation over reactive responses.
The policy advocates for standalone flood insurance policies, which offer clearer and more comprehensive protection, promote better risk management, and support disaster recovery efforts.
The national framework will guide the implementation of a robust and inclusive flood insurance system, protecting vulnerable populations, supporting rapid post-flood recovery, and enhancing national resilience.
A technical committee has been tasked with developing the National Flood Insurance Policy and Implementation Framework, defining clear timelines, assigning responsibilities, and developing monitoring mechanisms to ensure effective implementation.
However, challenges such as inadequate infrastructure, lack of inter-agency coordination, and cultural barriers may hinder the policy’s success.
The adoption of the National Flood Insurance Policy is a significant step towards building resilience in Nigeria.
By providing a financial safety net and promoting proactive flood risk management, the policy has the potential to reduce the economic and human toll of recurring floods.
As Nigeria embarks on this journey, it is essential to address the challenges and ensure effective implementation to secure a more resilient future for its citizens.
The policy will be implemented in collaboration with relevant stakeholders, including the National Insurance Commission (NAICOM), Nigerian Meteorological Agency (NiMet), and leading underwriters.
The NFIP will offer structured coverage for residential properties, commercial enterprises, agricultural investments, and public infrastructure, with subsidized premiums to make it affordable for low-income households and vulnerable small businesses.
As Africa navigates the challenges of climate change, energy poverty, and sustainable development, a growing number of nations are considering nuclear energy as part of their energy mix.
However, critics warn of the dangers of nuclear power, citing risks to human health, the environment, and the high upfront costs of building nuclear power plants.
Thirteen African countries, including Angola, Burkina Faso, Egypt, Ethiopia, Ghana, Kenya, Morocco, Namibia, Nigeria, Senegal, Tanzania, Rwanda, and Uganda, plan to roll out nuclear power plants.
Proponents argue that nuclear energy can provide reliable and constant electricity, driving industrialization and economic growth.
Critics argue that renewable energy sources, such as solar, wind, hydro, and geothermal power, are cleaner, safer, and more cost-effective.
Africa has an abundance of renewable energy resources that can be harnessed to generate electricity.
Many African countries are already investing in renewable energy projects with promising results.
A report by 12 civil society organizations warns against the dangers of nuclear energy, citing its slow delivery, high costs, and risks to human health and the environment.
The authors call for an end to plans to spend billions on building new nuclear power plants, arguing that funding could be better spent on renewable energy projects.
As Africa weighs the benefits and risks of nuclear energy, prioritizing clean, safe, and sustainable energy solutions is essential.
Renewable energy sources offer a viable alternative to nuclear power, providing a cleaner, safer, and more cost-effective way to generate electricity.
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