On Aug. 14, the World Health Organization (WHO) classified Mpox virus, which is surging across several African countries, as a “public health emergency of international concern.” This action will help mobilize global and regional public health resources to better monitor and respond to the threats posed.
Naturally, in the wake of COVID-19, this has many people worried we’re about to relive the collective trauma of lockdowns and fears of acquiring a potentially deadly virus. As an epidemiologist who studies the intersection of infectious diseases and social life, I share these concerns, but, at this point, I believe the WHO’s announcement should raise caution, not cause panic.
