'We must collaborate,' WHO says, adding that Africa cannot afford to fall behind in the fight against monkeypox.

South Africa and Botswana assert that they can combat the disease.

The WHO is reuniting its collaborators to create a strategy that will not abandon Africa in the battle against monkeypox.

"We have to avoid two distinct reactions to monkeypox – one for Africa and another for western countries that are now having major transmission," said Dr Matshidiso Moeti, WHO's Regional Director for Africa.

The WHO has received reports of 257 cases from 23 non-endemic nations in Europe,  Africa and the US.

In Cameroon, the Democratic Republic of the Congo, the Central African Republic, Liberia, Sierra Leone, the Republic of the Congo, and Nigeria nearly 1 400 cases of monkeypox have been reported this year, with 1 392 suspected and 44 confirmed cases.

Throughout the years, the disease has been a recurring theme. The WHO suggests learning how to deal with it from there.

Moeti continued, saying:

We must collaborate and coordinate global actions that take Africa's experience, expertise, and needs into account. This is the only way to ensure increased surveillance, a better understanding of the disease's evolution, and increased readiness and response to prevent further spread.

Dr. Christopher Nyanga, permanent secretary of Botswana's ministry of health and wellness, declared the country on high alert and urged citizens to adhere to strict health routines.

"According to the ministry, Botswana and all residents of the country should remain vigilant and avoid close physical contact with other people. Those who develop symptoms after visiting a monkeypox-infected country should seek medical care at the nearest health facility "he said.

Smallpox vaccination, according to the WHO, protects against monkeypox.

A new vaccine for smallpox and monkeypox has been approved, but it is not yet widely available.