The World Health Organization (WHO) has confirmed that the first case of infection with the new strain of the monkeypox disease outside of the territory of Africa, reported Reuters.
Representatives of the Swedish health authorities stated at a press conference that it is a person who got infected during his stay in Africa.
"The emergence of such a case on the European continent could spur the rapid spread of monkeypox worldwide," said Lawrence Gostin, a public health expert and professor at Georgetown Law School in Washington. "One case in Sweden most likely means dozens of undetected cases in Europe," added Gostin.
The WHO on Wednesday declared the outbreak in Africa a public health emergency of international concern after an outbreak in the Democratic Republic of Congo spread to neighboring countries.
Since the beginning of the current epidemic in January 2023, Congo has recorded 27,000 infections and more than 1,100 deaths, mainly among children.
Monkey pox is a viral disease that causes a blistering rash. It is spread through physical contact with infected people or animals, as well as through contact with contaminated materials. Although most patients recover completely, the disease can be dangerous for children, pregnant women and people with weak immune systems.
The Global Alliance for Vaccines and Immunization (GAVI) told Reuters it has about half a billion dollars in funds for vaccinations in countries affected by the growing epidemic.
Meanwhile, China said it will monitor people and goods entering the country for the new strain of the disease over the next six months.