USA Declares Monkeypox a Public Health Emergency

A week after the World Health Organization deemed monkeypox to be a global health emergency, the U.S. has followed suit, declaring the virus a national crisis.

With the United States now having by far the most cases of monkeypox worldwide, the Biden administration on Thursday declared the virus to be a public health emergency. The declaration opens the door to more treatments, services, and funds to fight the virus.

“We’re prepared to take our response to the next level in addressing this virus, and we urge every American to take monkeypox seriously and to take responsibility to help us tackle this virus,” said U.S. Department of Health and Human Services Secretary Xavier Becerra a press briefing.

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As of August 4, the United States leads the world in monkeypox infections, with at least 6,616 cases in 48 states and the District of Columbia, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). In just over a week, reported infections in America have more than doubled. The New York Times said that New York, Washington, and Georgia have the highest rates per capita.

Globally, more than 26,000 cases have been recorded in 87 countries, according to the CDC.