In a new update, the World Health Organization (WHO) notes 41 new mpox cases in the Western Pacific, Americas, and Africa. Beginning in July, the WHO said it will be publishing new situation updates monthly.
"Virus transmission continues at a low pace in several countries, and the main epidemiological and clinical characteristics of cases are stable over time," the WHO said. "Nineteen countries are reporting cases."
Since January of 2022, a total of 87,972 laboratory-confirmed cases of mpox, including 147 deaths, have been reported to the WHO by 112 countries. Reported weekly cases declined by 42% in week 24 (June 12 through June 18), with 41 cases reported to the WHO, compared with 71 cases in week 23 (June 5 through June 11).
Israel reports first case of 2023
In related news, Israel has reported its first mpox case of the year, in a man who had been vaccinated against the virus. Last year, the country tallied 262 mpox cases. The man had recently traveled to Portugal, news reports said.
In its report, the WHO also updated guidance on infections in pregnant women, saying they should avoid all close contact with mpox patients who have active infections, and use condoms for 12 weeks. If infected, pregnant women should continue all prenatal care. According to the WHO, 58 mpox patients were reported to be pregnant or recently pregnant in the mpox global surveillance data since January 2022.
The WHO said decisions to breastfeed should be made on a case-by-case basis.