The World Health Organization (WHO) Director-General addressed multiple pressing health issues during a recent media briefing.
H5N1 Avian Influenza: While the risk to the public is currently low, WHO stressed the importance of global surveillance for influenza viruses in animals. This is important to identify potential mutations that could lead to outbreaks in humans.
COVID-19: A worrying decline in vaccination coverage was seen among high-risk groups such as healthcare workers and people over 60. WHO recommends that these groups receive a booster shot within 12 months of their last dose.
Mpox: The ongoing Mpox outbreak remains a global threat. An increase in cases has been reported in the Democratic Republic of the Congo and South Africa, with children particularly affected. WHO is actively supporting both countries in their response efforts.
Attacks on Healthcare Facilities: WHO strongly condemns the recent attack on Ohmatdit National Children’s Hospital in Kiev, Ukraine. This incident is an example of ongoing violations of international humanitarian law.
Humanitarian Crises: The Director-General highlighted the dire situations in Sudan and Gaza. Both regions face critical shortages of medical supplies and healthcare workers, further exacerbated by ongoing conflicts. Millions require urgent medical assistance, with malnutrition a growing concern in Gaza. WHO called for unimpeded access to deliver life-saving aid and urged an immediate political solution in Sudan.
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