The head of the World Health Organization's European office was concerned about the accelerated spread of monkeypox in Europe, AFP news agency reported.
Hans Kluj, head of the WHO European office, said in a statement yesterday (21st), "We are concerned that the spread of monkeypox infection may be accelerated as Europe is entering the summer season with large gatherings, festivals and parties."
Monkey smallpox mainly occurred in Central and West Africa, but in recent weeks it has been confirmed in several European countries.
At least eight European countries, including France, Germany, Italy, Portugal, Spain, Belgium, Sweden and the United Kingdom, have reported cases of infection in recent days, Kluge said.
The WHO European Office covers 53 countries, including Europe, Russia and parts of Central Asia.
Enlarging an image
Dutch health officials said yesterday that the first case of monkeypox was confirmed in the country and there could be more, according to Reuters.
Similar cases have recently been reported in the United States, Canada and Australia.
Director Kluj explained that the recent cases of infection are unusual, and with the exception of one case, there is no travel history related to western and central Africa, where monkey pox has become an endemic disease.
Monkey smallpox is a viral disease with a fatality rate of 1 to 10% depending on the strain.
It is usually transmitted through the respiratory tract, but there is also the possibility of transmission through sexual contact.
As with smallpox, monkeypox has early symptoms such as fever, headache, muscle pain, lymphadenitis, and fatigue.