The World Health Organization officially declared monkeypox a global emergency, as more than 16,000 cases have been reported in 75 countries. A global emergency declaration is seen more as an effort to raise awareness and curb the spread of disease than an indication that everyone will contract it. Thus far the information being presented suggests that men who have sex with other men are the most at risk, but there have been cases found in children, and the true number of infected is thought to be much higher than reported.
“We’ve now unfortunately really missed the boat on being able to put a lid on the outbreak earlier. Now it’s going to be a real struggle to be able to contain and control spread.”
Dr. James Lawler of the University of Nebraska’s Global Center for Health Security
The longer this global outbreak goes on, the higher the odds of the virus being transmitted from infected people to animal populations, where it could thrive and sporadically trigger new infections in people. If you’ve seen the Matt Damon classic “Contagion”, you know this is one way that a disease becomes endemic in a region. Personally, given how well we all handled Covid, I’d give it 6- 8 months before we’re all dead or munching bananas.
Side Items
This article dives into the days and hours that became a final stand-off of sorts between Ukraine and Russia, taking place in a sprawling steelworks complex
Tunisia’s new draft constitution looks like it might lead to some problems of the autocratic variety
Went and saw Jordan Peele’s new film “Nope” last night. A complex, if humorous interpretation of trauma, fame, and how the two are often tied together in our quest for infamy. 8.5/10, would strongly recommend
Side Side Item
Officially reached a month of publishing The Mourning!! To celebrate I ask each of you to think of at least one (1) other interested reader and share it with them if you like. Gotta start growing the fan club!