As Europe gears up for summer festivals and LGBTQ+ Pride events, the World Health Organization (WHO) has issued a warning to gay and bisexual men, urging them to get vaccinated against mpox (formerly known as monkeypox). The WHO’s caution comes after recent small clusters of mpox cases were identified in the United States, Britain, Spain, Belgium, and the Netherlands, particularly affecting men who have sex with men.
Richard Pebody, the program area manager for infectious hazards at WHO Europe, expressed concerns about a potential resurgence of mpox during the festival season. He emphasized the heightened risk of transmission associated with activities, including sexual interactions, that are common during such events. Pebody stated, “With the onset of festivals and events, there are potential activities, particularly sexual activities… that increase the risk of transmission. Then there is the potential to see clusters and outbreaks of mpox.”
The WHO declared a global health emergency between July 2022 and May 2023 due to the first outbreak of mpox in multiple countries outside West and Central Africa, where the disease is endemic. Mpox, a viral disease transmitted through direct contact with body fluids, manifests flu-like symptoms and pus-filled skin lesions.
According to the latest data from the WHO, since January 1, 2022, nearly 88,000 cases of mpox have been reported worldwide, resulting in 147 deaths. The United States, Brazil, and Spain have been the most severely affected countries. The WHO reported a concerning 214% increase in mpox cases in Europe, with twenty-two new cases recorded in the latest three weeks’ data.
Hans Henri P. Kluge, the WHO’s regional director for Europe, emphasized the continued circulation of the virus in Europe, particularly among men who have sex with men, and the potential for a resurgence. Kluge stated, “While this might seem low, it tells us that the virus continues to circulate in Europe, particularly affecting men who have sex with men, and you can see a resurgence.”
In November, the WHO announced its decision to use the term mpox instead of monkeypox to refer to the disease. This change followed complaints that the previous name was racist and stigmatizing. With summer festivals around the corner, the WHO’s call for vaccination serves as a crucial reminder for the LGBTQ+ community, especially gay and bisexual men, to protect themselves against mpox and help prevent further outbreaks.
In these challenging times, prioritizing health and taking precautions is essential. Stay informed and take necessary steps to safeguard yourself and others. Together, we can ensure a safe and enjoyable summer festival season for everyone.