WHO on monkeypox: 131 cases confirmed in 17 countries

In recent weeks, the number of confirmed monkeypox cases in non-endemic countries has increased to 131. Additionally, there are another 106 suspected cases, according to Tuesday's report from the World Health Organization (WHO).

The organization said that the countries that have reported the most cases of the disease are Spain (40), Portugal (37), and the United Kingdom (20).

Cases have now been confirmed in 17 countries, mostly in Europe. However, infections have also been reported in Pakistan (2), Israel (1), Canada (5), the U.S. (2), and Australia (2), WHO said during a technical session.

Spain is the country with the most suspected cases of the disease (51), followed by Canada (17) and Italy (15), according to WHO data, which also reported a possible infection in Argentina.

The disease has been endemic for at least 40 years in West and Central African countries. Cases had always been linked to people traveling to the African continent, so this would be the first time such a widespread outbreak of the disease has been observed.

WHO recommendations against monkeypox

Treatment of patients with monkeypox varies depending on the symptoms that the patient is presenting. "Several compounds are being developed and tested that may be effective against monkeypox virus infection," the WHO posted on its website.

"Contact with sick or dead animals should be avoided, and all food containing meat or animal parts should be properly cooked before eating," the organization added, as most infections result from animal-to-human transmission.

In addition, close contact with infected persons or contaminated materials should be avoided. The organization recommended the use of gloves and personal protective equipment while caring for the sick, either in a health center or at home.