In Africa, a new and dangerous virus called mpox is spreading. It is not like COVID-19, but it is a serious concern. Recently, a mutated and more deadly version of mpox has been found.
Thailand has reported a case of the deadlier strain, clade Ib. This strain has also been seen in Sweden. The World Health Organization is worried and has declared an international health emergency.
Many African countries have cases of mpox, with Congo reporting over 1,000 cases in a week. The virus can be stopped with a smallpox vaccine. Other countries like Spain, Taiwan, Pakistan, and the Philippines have also reported cases of mpox.
The WHO and CDC are working to prevent the spread of the virus. They are monitoring the situation closely and are ready to act to keep people safe.
Vocabulary List:
- Virulent /ˈvɪr.jə.lənt/ (adjective): Extremely harmful and severe; highly infectious.
- Mutation /mjuːˈteɪ.ʃən/ (noun): A change in the structure of a gene that can result in a new variation.
- Epidemic /ˌɛp.ɪˈdɛm.ɪk/ (noun): A widespread occurrence of an infectious disease in a community at a particular time.
- Emergency /ɪˈmɜːr.dʒən.si/ (noun): A serious unexpected and often dangerous situation requiring immediate action.
- Monitor /ˈmɒn.ɪ.tər/ (verb): To observe and check the progress or quality of something over a period of time.
- Vaccine /vækˈsiːn/ (noun): A substance that stimulates the production of antibodies and provides immunity against one or several diseases.
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