WHO calls for 'urgent' action to stem monkeypox spread in Europe as cases surge

The World Health Organization on Friday called for ''urgent'' action to prevent the spread of monkeypox in Europe, noting that cases had tripled in the region in the past two weeks.

''Today I intensify my call on governments and civil society to step up their efforts…to prevent monkeypox from becoming established in an expanding geographic area,'' said the Regional Director. for Europe, Hans Henri Kluge.

''Urgent and coordinated action is imperative if we are to turn a corner in the race to reverse the continued spread of this disease.''

Since early May, an upsurge in monkeypox cases has been detected outside West and Central African countries where the viral disease is endemic.

Ninety percent of all lab-confirmed cases recorded globally — or 4,500 infections — are in Europe, Kluge said.