WHO Releases New Strategic Framework to Enhance Prevention and Control of Mpox
WHO has released a new strategic framework to enhance prevention and control of mpox, a viral illness caused by the monkeypox virus. Learn about the symptoms, transmission, and global impact of mpox outbreaks, as well as the current outbreak in the Democratic Republic of the Congo.
WHO Prequalifies TAK-003: New Dengue Vaccine Marks Major Breakthrough
The World Health Organization (WHO) prequalified the innovative TAK-003 dengue vaccine, designed for children aged 6-16 in high-prevalence regions. With a two-dose regimen, TAK-003 joins the WHO list alongside CYD-TDV, expanding global vaccine accessibility. Dengue, a significant public health threat, affects millions annually, highlighting the importance of advancements in vaccine development.
WHO Warns of Deadly Hepatitis E Outbreak in Chad
The World Health Organisation (WHO) has issued a warning after an outbreak of Hepatitis E killed seven people in Chad, central Africa. More than 2,000 suspected cases have been reported, with the virus being prominent in the Ouaddai province due to an influx of refugees from Sudan. Doctors Without Borders has expressed concerns about the health risks posed to both refugees and host communities. Hepatitis E is highly contagious and mainly transmitted through contaminated water.
High Salt Consumption and Hypertension Leading to 10,000 Daily Deaths in WHO European Region
Cardiovascular diseases are claiming the lives of 10,000 people every day in the WHO European Region, with men being more frequently affected than women. A recent report from WHO/Europe has highlighted the alarming levels of salt consumption and uncontrolled high blood pressure contributing to this health crisis. Implementing targeted policies to reduce salt intake by 25% could potentially save around 900,000 lives from CVDs by 2030.
Namibia Achieves Milestone in Ending Mother-to-Child Transmission of HIV and Hepatitis B
Namibia achieves milestone in fighting mother-to-child transmission of HIV and hepatitis B, becoming first in Africa to do so. With almost universal HIV testing among pregnant women and a 70% reduction in vertical transmission, only 4% of babies born to HIV-positive mothers acquired the virus in 2022. WHO awards Namibia for progress in reducing hepatitis B and combating HIV, highlighting the country’s strategic approach to disease elimination.
African Countries Making Strides in Malaria Vaccine Rollout
Ghana, Kenya, and Malawi have been leading the fight against malaria by rolling out life-saving vaccines since 2019. Over 2.5 million children have received the vaccine, with more African countries set to introduce it by 2024. Stakeholders recently gathered in Ghana to learn from successful experiences and prepare for new introductions. The workshop covered various aspects like vaccine introduction, risk communication, and data management, emphasizing the importance of sharing information to improve vaccination processes and reach more children.
Global Shortage of Cholera Vaccine Raises Public Health Concerns
Cholera, a deadly waterborne disease, is making a worrying comeback globally due to a critical shortage of the oral cholera vaccine. With a key manufacturer ceasing production, efforts to establish new facilities are underway. The resurgence of cholera highlights the lack of political will and financial investment in combating the disease, especially in regions with poor water and sanitation infrastructure. Urgent action is needed to prevent further loss of life.
WHO Introduces New Guidance on Airborne Disease Transmission
Learn how MIT researcher Lydia Bourouiba’s work influenced the World Health Organization’s new guidance on airborne disease transmission. Her expertise in fluid dynamics and disease transmission has reshaped terminology and understanding of how respiratory pathogens spread, leading to more effective strategies for mitigating transmission.
Influenza Identified as Most Likely Cause of Next Global Pandemic, Survey Shows
An international survey of 187 senior disease experts reveals that the next global pandemic is most likely to be caused by a strain of the flu virus. The study highlights the constant evolution and mutation of influenza as the basis for concern, with 57% of experts identifying it as the greatest threat to global health. Other potential causes include a hypothetical virus known as Disease X and Sars-CoV-2, responsible for Covid-19, but influenza remains the primary concern among the global scientific community.
WHO Approves New Oral Cholera Vaccine to Combat Global Outbreaks
Zambia battles a cholera outbreak with the approval of a new oral cholera vaccine, Euvichol-S, by the WHO. The increased production of the vaccine aims to address the global cholera crisis, with an expected rise in supply for 2024. Gavi and UNICEF are actively involved in response efforts, emphasizing preventive measures and control strategies to combat the escalating outbreaks.