Monkeypox: UK patient discusses his symptoms “International action” is needed to curb the spread of a potentially deadly infection that has already been declared a global health emergency, officials have said. In a major update the World Health Organisation (WHO) revealed that at least 100 new cases of mpox are being registered in Europe every month. The disease, formerly known as monkeypox, has sparked significant concern worldwide as cases have skyrocketed in Africa.
Data shows more than 15,000 mpox cases and 461 deaths were reported on the continent in 2024 so far. This is a 160 per cent rise in cases compared with the same period in 2023, while deaths have increased by about 19 per cent. It is thought this surge is caused by the clade 1b variety of mpox, which seems to spread more easily though routine close contact.
READ MORE Expert on the six red flag symptoms of mpox as disease found in Europe Cases of mpox have also been found in Europe (Image: Getty) A case of clade 1b has since been detected in Sweden, prompting further concern. In a media briefing Hans Kluge, WHO regional director for Europe, explained that 100 new cases of the clade 2 strain viral disease are being registered every month Europe. He said: "We can and must tackle mpox together.
"So will we choose to put the systems in place to control and eliminate mpox globally? Or we will enter another cycle of panic and neglect? How we respond now and in the years to come will prove a critical test for Europe.