92 monkeypox cases confirmed in 12 countries, may spread globally: WHO
NEW DELHI: At least 92 monkeypox virus cases have been confirmed in 12 countries, the World Health Organization (WHO) has said, warning that the infection is likely to spread to more nations even as it expands surveillance. The 12 countries -- the US, Canada, Australia, UK, Spain, Portugal, Germany, Belgium, France, the Netherlands, Italy and Sweden -- are not endemic for monkeypox virus, meaning the virus is not typically found unlike some countries in Central and West Africa. While so far no deaths have been reported, about 28 cases in these countries are potential cases. Investigations are going on to confirm them, the global health agency said. "As of May 21, 92 laboratory confirmed cases, and 28 suspected cases of monkeypox with investigations ongoing, have been reported to WHO from 12 Member States that are not endemic for monkeypox virus, across three WHO regions," the WHO said in a statement. "No associated deaths have been reported to date. The situation is ...