US Biden: "Monkeypox is not as concerning as COVID-19"

President Joe Biden of the United States
[Photo by Yonhap News]

[Asia Economy Reporter Bu Aeri] U.S. President Joe Biden recently stated on the 23rd that he does not believe monkeypox, a rare infectious disease spreading in Europe and the United States, will reach a level of concern comparable to COVID-19.

According to AP News and others, President Biden, who is visiting Japan, made these remarks during a press conference following the U.S.-Japan summit.

In response to a question about whether the U.S. should anticipate quarantine measures similar to those applied in some countries where monkeypox is spreading, Biden replied, "I don't think so," adding, "I don't see the need for additional efforts beyond what is currently happening."

Belgium became the first country worldwide to introduce quarantine measures related to monkeypox on the 21st, and the United Kingdom also issued a three-week self-isolation guideline on the same day for monkeypox patients and their contacts.

President Biden added, "However, people should be cautious."

Monkeypox, a viral disease, primarily occurred in Central and Western Africa but has recently been confirmed in Europe and North America. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), as of the 21st, there have been 20 cases in the United Kingdom, and about 90 infections and approximately 30 suspected cases across 12 countries including Europe, the United States, Australia, and Israel. At least two cases have been confirmed in the United States.