NewsGate Press Network

The Monkeypox  transmission can be stopped, if the world takes the risks seriously, said World Health Organisation (WHO).

On Wednesday the 27th of July 2022, the Director-General of  WHO, Dr T A Ghebreyesus while addressing media persons stated that as of today, more than 18,000 cases have now been reported from 78 countries, with more than 70 per cent of cases reported from Europe itself.

So far, five deaths have been reported and about 10 per cent of monkeypox cases have been hospitalized.

“This is an outbreak that can be stopped, if countries, communities and individuals inform themselves, take the risks seriously, and take the steps needed to stop transmission and protect vulnerable groups,” Tedros said during a press briefing.
“The best way to do that is to reduce the risk of exposure. That means making safe choices for yourself and others,” he added.
Tedros said men who have sex with men should reduce their number of sexual partners, and reconsider sex with new partners.
“The focus for all countries must be engaging and empowering communities of men who have sex with men to reduce the risk of infection and onward transmission, to provide care for those infected, and to safeguard human rights and dignity,” he said.
Amid the ongoing spread of the virus, the WHO chief warned against “stigma and discrimination”, saying it can be as dangerous as any virus and can fuel the outbreak.
“Although 98 per cent of cases so far are among men who have sex with men, anyone exposed can get monkeypox, which is why WHO recommends that countries take action to reduce the risk of transmission to other vulnerable groups, including children, pregnant women and those who are immuno-suppressed,” he said.