WHO Director-General Dr Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus has determined that the upsurge of mpox in the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) and a growing number of countries in Africa constitutes a public health emergency of international concern (PHEIC) under the International Health Regulations (2005) (IHR).

Dr Tedros’s declaration came on the advice of an IHR Emergency Committee of independent experts who met earlier in the day to review data presented by experts from WHO and affected countries. The Committee informed the Director-General that it considers the upsurge of mpox to be a PHEIC, with potential to spread further across countries in Africa and possibly outside the continent.

The Director-General will share the report of the Committee’s meeting and, based on the advice of the Committee, issue temporary recommendations to countries. 

In declaring the PHEIC, Dr Tedros said, “The emergence of a new clade of mpox, its rapid spread in eastern DRC, and the reporting of cases in several neighbouring countries are very worrying. On top of outbreaks of other mpox clades in DRC and other countries in Africa, it’s clear that a coordinated international response is needed to stop these outbreaks and save lives.”

WHO Regional Director for Africa Dr Matshidiso Moeti said, “Significant efforts are already underway in close collaboration with communities and governments, with our country teams working on the frontlines to help reinforce measures to curb mpox. With the growing spread of the virus, we’re scaling up further through coordinated international action to support countries bring the outbreaks to an end.” 

Committee Chair Professor Dimie Ogoina said, “The current upsurge of mpox in parts of Africa, along with the spread of a new sexually transmissible strain of the monkeypox virus, is an emergency, not only for Africa, but for the entire globe. Mpox, originating in Africa, was neglected there, and later caused a global outbreak in 2022. It is time to act decisively to prevent history from repeating itself.”

This PHEIC determination is the second in two years relating to mpox. Caused by an Orthopoxvirus, mpox was first detected in humans in 1970, in the DRC. The disease is considered endemic to countries in central and west Africa.

In July 2022, the multi-country outbreak of mpox was declared a PHEIC as it spread rapidly via sexual contact across a range of countries where the virus had not been seen before. That PHEIC was declared over in May 2023 after there had been a sustained decline in global cases.

Mpox has been reported in the DRC for more than a decade, and the number of cases reported each year has increased steadily over that period. Last year, reported cases increased significantly, and already the number of cases reported so far this year has exceeded last year’s total, with more than 15 600 cases and 537 deaths. 

The emergence last year and rapid spread of a new virus strain in DRC, clade 1b, which appears to be spreading mainly through sexual networks, and its detection in countries neighbouring the DRC is especially concerning, and one of the main reasons for the declaration of the PHEIC.

In the past month, over 100 laboratory-confirmed cases of clade 1b have been reported in four countries neighbouring the DRC that have not reported mpox before: Burundi, Kenya, Rwanda and Uganda. Experts believe the true number of cases to be higher as a large proportion of clinically compatible cases have not been tested.

Several outbreaks of different clades of mpox have occurred in different countries, with different modes of transmission and different levels of risk.

The two vaccines currently in use for mpox are recommended by WHO’s Strategic Advisory Group of Experts on Immunization, and are also approved by WHO-listed national regulatory authorities, as well as by individual countries including Nigeria and the DRC.

Last week, the Director-General triggered the process for Emergency Use Listing for mpox vaccines, which will accelerate vaccine access for lower-income countries which have not yet issued their own national regulatory approval. Emergency Use Listing also enables partners including Gavi and UNICEF to procure vaccines for distribution. 

WHO is working with countries and vaccine manufacturers on potential vaccine donations, and coordinating with partners through the interim Medical Countermeasures Network to facilitate equitable access to vaccines, therapeutics, diagnostics and other tools.

WHO anticipates an immediate funding requirement of an initial US$ 15 million to support surveillance, preparedness and response activities. A needs assessment is being undertaken across the three levels of the Organization.

To allow for an immediate scale up, WHO has released US$ 1.45 million from the WHO Contingency Fund for Emergencies and may need to release more in the coming days. The Organization appeals to donors to fund the full extent of needs of the mpox response. 

Source: who.int

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If you belong to those that carry one or more gas bottles, then travelling abroad can present you with a headache when it comes to replenishing them. Almost every country has its preferred system and compatibility with others isn’t a priority. Consequently, getting a replacement or refill isn’t an easy task.

LPG tank owners, on the other hand, can refuel at countless service stations.

MY STORY SO FAR

Unlike my VW T3, which I sold many moons ago, my Land Rover isn’t equipped with a built-in LPG tank and I certainly don’t have the space, or inclination, to carry several 11-kilogram bottles on a long trip.

I’m not too fussed about cold weather because I have a really good Sea to Summit sleeping bag that can easily cope with extreme minus temperatures. I haven’t missed a heater in years. After all, if it does get too cold, I can use an electric heater powered by the leisure battery, resort to a candle and clay flowerpot, or drive to warmer climes.

When it comes to cooking, I see a lot of merit in being able to pull over and quickly rustle up a warm meal, or just brew a cup of coffee or tea, on a gas stove. For years, my go-to solution is my trusted Svea stove made almost completely from brass. It fits well with my minimalistic approach and I love its classic style and heritage. But even that entails carrying enough of the right spirit.

A gas stove (and I have collected several) is only good, if you have gas. It’s quick, clean, and simply effective. But the thought of running out of gas means that I don’t use any of them nearly enough, except maybe for my Optimus multi-fuel stove which, as the name implies, runs on gas and almost everything else (including petrol).

Hot shower anyone? Or even just hot water. Unless you have a heat exchanger on your engine, you can choose a gas-fired boiler or a shower unit (such as Arma). But they, too, are appliances that need gas and add to the overall consumption. More reasons why I haven’t used them in the past.

TIME FOR AN UPGRADE

Things have changed recently. At the end of 2023, I saw an ad for a bright yellow Gaslow-branded gas bottle that held a lot of promise. Yes, it’s a portable gas bottle, made in the U.K., but it comes with all the benefits normally associated with LPG tanks. Its singularly most significant selling point is that they can safely be refilled at any one of the numerous service stations almost anywhere across Europe, because Gaslow provide the necessary adapters—just as if you were driving an LPG car.

I thought about it briefly and dived in. Now, I have a 6-kilogram bottle that resides in an easily accessible Zarges box on the roof and I have a powerful stove. If Tristan is travelling with me in his car, then he is even more likely to pack his Arma shower.

The Gaslow bottle is CE marked and approved for it’s described use. The one regulation you need to abide by is that it must be secured to the vehicle for refilling (for example, with a ratchet strap). You don’t want it falling over and service station attendants are rightfully quite sensitive in this respect.

As far as the legality is concerned, a speech held by Jens Pillat, a test engineer assigned by the TÜV in Thüringen, in regard to refillable cylinders/bottles in vehicles, was published as a video on YouTube on October 31st, 2023. If you want to skip the preamble, start listening from marker 29:53. In summary, refillable cylinders/bottles that are not permanently fixed to a vehicle are permissible. The speech is held in German.

THE RANGE

• Gaslow bottles come in three sizes: 2.7 kg,* 6 kg, and 11 kg.
• Adapters are available for all popular European nozzles.
• All bottles are 80% overfill protected.
• Prices range between £180 and £430 (€299 and €370) depending upon configuration and local availability.

*At the time of writing, the 2.7 kg was not CE approved.

RUNNING COSTS

Using my 6-kilogram bottle and prices at the time of writing as an example, the initial outlay for the bottle is €337.19. It comes with a 10-year warranty and holds around 11.3 litres of gas.

The cost of a standard 5-kilogram propane bottle lies between €30 and €45 for purchase, or €20 to €35 for rent.

LPG (in Germany) costs between €0.79 and €0.99 per litre or, €8.92 and €11.19 per refill.

In comparison, the cost of a refill at popular DIY sheds and camping outlets ranges anywhere between €13.10 and €15.90.

Throw into the equation that the Gaslow bottle can be refilled across Europe at all hours whilst travelling, then it is a viable solution which will save money on refills in the long term.

An overview of LPG prices across Europe can be found here.

CONCLUSION

What’s not to like about the Gaslow cylinders?

• The bottle and adapters are well manufactured.
• The gauge informs me reliably how much is in the tank.
• I don’t have to worry about a refill—even after normal working hours.
• I can top up the bottle for reassurance and maximum capacity when I go off grid.
• Gaslow cylinders can replace existing bottles and are easy to install.

Yes, you need to buy your own bottle, but the cost is a worthwhile investment in vastly improved flexibility, ongoing savings, and peace of mind.

I keep saying I can fill up the bottle “almost” anywhere. As far as I am aware, you cannot refill LPG tanks in Iceland, and you cannot board the ferries with full gas tanks or bottles, so make the necessary preparations before you leave home.

GASLOWDIRECT.COM | GASLOWDIREKT.DE

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With this year’s Abenteuer & Allrad show in Bad Kissingen, Germany, only days away, I spoke to Simon Heiringshoff to learn about some of the highlights visitors can expect to find on display…and they have plenty in store.

First of all, there will be two freshly completed vehicles, one Sprinter and one Daily, each furnished with brand new interior design concepts. The Sprinter is complimented with bunk beds and the Daily is sporting a Flexebu pop-top.

EXCLUSIVE: SCHEEL-MANN SEATS FOR THE DAILY

For the first time, the Iveco Daily is fitted with SCHEEL-MANN front seats mounted on brand new consoles which have been developed exclusively by Mostvanted in close cooperation with the seat manufacturer.

SCHEEL-MANN are renowned for their comfort, so this encouraging news will certainly be of interest to all Daily 4×4 drivers.

NEW PRODUCTS

Iveco Daily handbrake — Mostvanted have created a low profile handbrake which now permits the installation of rotating seat consoles, thus improving the interior comfort and diversity.

Spare-wheel carrier SUMMIT — Made from aluminium, this carrier accepts wheel/tyre configurations between 785 mm to 900 mm in diameter with tyre widths from 230 mm to 280 mm.

Auxiliary lamp bar — Designed especially for the Sprinter and made from 5 mm stainless steel, this bar reduces vibration to an absolute minimum.

Forged alloy wheels — Brand new 17” forged rims for both the Sprinter and the Daily feature high load capacity.

POPULAR PRODUCTS


Side ladder APPROACH — Available for a wide range of vans including Sprinter, Daily, Crafter, Ducato, and Boxer. Made from aluminium and weighing just 8 kg, this sturdy ladder can be ordered for self-assembly.

Rear carrier X-TREME — Available for the Sprinter 907 and the Daily (from 2016), the carrier is made from aluminium and weighs 28.2 kg. Further accessories include storage boxes, spare wheel carrier, and bicycle carrier.

Roof rack MOUNTAIN / TERRITORY — The aluminum roof racks can be tailored to fit most vehicles and weigh approximately 30 kg (depending upon the final configuration). The range of accessories include auxiliary lamps (front and side), wooden terrace, back rests, hammock posts, awnings, solar panels, and more.

Suspension X-PLORER — Based upon Öhlins’ technology, Mostvanted have developed their own suspension setup for Sprinters and Dailys destined for adventure travel in remote areas.

MOSTVANTED

Photography: Marcel Lämmerhirt

The post Vanlife, overlanding, bespoke interiors, and robust accessories — Mostvanted champions each discipline and is preparing to wow visitors at this year’s Abenteuer & Allrad show in Bad Kissingen appeared first on overland-europe.

Belstaff has already played a significant role in the Grenadier’s rising insofar as two feature packages bear the titles Trialmaster and Fieldmaster – names more commonly associated with styles of jackets. The Grenadier 1924, which takes even more cues from the enduring clothing brand is immediately recognisable by its Magic Mushroom livery, exclusive gloss black diamond-cut 17″ two-tone alloy wheels, a dechromed black grille and dark grey front and rear skid plates.

Based upon the flagship Fieldmaster package, the Grenadier 1924 has a dark green finish on the dashboard, instrument consoles and door cards, while the steering wheel, handbrake grip and passenger grab handle are embellished with black saddle leather trim, and the headlining is finished in dark grey.

Lynn Calder, CEO of INEOS Automotive, comments: “Style that lasts a century deserves to be celebrated and the Grenadier 1924 is both great looking and a seriously assured drive. Belstaff has been trusted by generations of bikers, sportspeople and trend setters, so we know we’re in good company.”

Both divisions of the INEOS portfolio, Belstaff and INEOS Automotive, share the same philosophy to produce authentic, high quality products that are designed and engineered to last. The Grenadier 1924 will have its public debut at a centenary event between May 24th and 28th in Stoke-on-Trent, the city where Belstaff was founded. Taking over one of the city’s famed potteries, Belstaff will present an immersive brand experience, including a display of rare pieces sourced from around the globe. The weekend will also host talks, screenings and workshops, and will be open to members of the public, as well as VIP guests, collectors and members of the Belstaff community, past and present.

The Grenadier 1924 will be available to order from the website and all authorised INEOS retailers from June 26th 2024.

INEOS

PODCAST

Don’t forget to listen to our new podcast episode which features an interview with Mercedes and Andy Lilienthal who drove the Grenadier to its first competitive win at the Alcan 5000 Rally earlier year.

The post To celebrate Belstaff’s centenary, INEOS Automotive has created the strictly limited edition Grenadier 1924 appeared first on overland-europe.

Our story begins in 2002, when Luca Meneghetti and Fabrizio Facini, two engineers with a strong passion for racing cars, founded Seido Design Engineering. After two years of activity dedicated to design wheels for the most important manufacturers, the Company decides to create its own brand of alloy wheels.

EVOCorse made its debut in 2004 with the SanremoCorse 15″ model in the rally championship in South Africa and, from then on, it saw itself as protagonist of increasingly prestigious competitions. Since 2012 our DakarCorse off-road wheel is the most used in the Dakar rally.

Following the victory of the 2023 Dakar Rally by Nasser Al Attiyah and Mathieu Baumel aboard the Toyota Hilux of the official Gazoo Racing team, EVO Corse launches DakarForged 17″.

The wheel is the same as the one used in the race, employing the same material and the same manufacturing processes, but “tamed” for on-road road use.

From Toyota Land Cruiser to Ford Ranger, from Nissan Patrol to VW Amarok, many vehicles will benefit from this high-performance wheel.

The DakarForged 17″ joins the historic range of Dakar products, renowned for their resistance to high loads and heavy use.

Visit our website to see the full range of alloy wheels, hi-performance jacks and accessories.

EVO Corse | Booth M27

Abenteuer & Allrad 2023

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Delta Automotive is a design and completion company based in Italy specialized in overland trucks and van customization. With a long-lasting experience in Business Aviation interiors, we are made up of a team of professionals with mutual passion in interior design and automotive. Our expedition trucks and customized vans are tailored to guarantee an advanced high-quality product that ensures the highest reliability for any adventure in any condition without compromising comfort and beauty.

DESIGN AND ENGINEERING

Delta Automotive expertise is ready to meet our Customers’ most demanding requirements and specs. We use the most advanced engineering and design software, that enables us to control all parts, have a BOM and standardize systems and equipment installation. Space is carefully used and many different interior arrangement can meet any customer desire. We will discuss and propose you different solutions, tailored to your needs and desires.

INDIVIDUAL VEHICLES

We offer a wide range of expedition body layouts which can be tailored to customer’s needs and adventures. We aim to minimize wasted spaces, provide comfort and more storage at the same time.

COMPONENTS FOR SELF-BUILDERS

For those who wants to self build their vehicle, we offer a solid base where to start from. We can supply the living unit, all basic equipments (like windows, doors, hatches, heaters, appliances, eletric componets, finishing materials) and special customized parts (like coutertops, shower plates, stairs).

Delta Automotive | Booth Z04

Abenteuer & Allrad 2023

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We have good reason to call ourselves Offroad Leichtbau Manufaktur – all lightweight cabins produced in our workshop are handmade and unique.

Unlike most other cabin builders, we produce our cabins using aerospace technology. This means that we only use materials certified for aviation and an epoxy resin based adhesive system. The wall structure of the cabins consists of a sandwich with an aramid core and skins made of carbon fibre. In addition, the cabin is subjected to a heat-curing process prior to painting and is absolutely dimensionally stable, heat-resistant and the surface is perfectly smooth.

This elaborate production process guarantees longevity and durability under the toughest operating conditions.

Our factory comprises a total area of 3,500 square meters, where our employees design, develop and assemble for all they’re worth.

Offroad Leichtbau Manufaktur | Booth M22

Abenteuer & Allrad 2023

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Quality and sustainability are two of our driving forces. Reason enough for Fernweh-Mobil® to manufacture entirely in Germany and invite prospective buyers to visit our facility and view cabins in various stages of completion.

The Fernweh-Mobil® can be used for all current pickup models and has the unbeatable advantage that the cabin can be easily swapped from one pickup to another, even if you want to change brands and models.

Mounting and dismounting the cabin takes around fifteen minutes.

The extremely robust GRP shell is designed for off-road use and can cope with any circumstances thanks to its excellent weight distribution. Optional extras including a rear ladder, awning, canister holder, sand tray holder, shower tent, etc. can be mounted to the exterior of the cabin. There is even room for a spare wheel on the roof.

The cozy interior is remarkably spacious and equipped with everything you need when traveling. With functionality in mind, all furnishings can be used with the roof closed – you can even sleep at the lower level. The individual requirements of every customer are taken into consideration during the planning and consultation phase, making each Fernweh-Mobil® a perfect solution.

To maximise your autonomy, optional extras include a water treatment system, diesel auxiliary heating, solar system and an automatic charge controller. We can also go as far as supplying fully equipped complete vehicles, in cooperation with our partners, as well as a trailer with motorcycle transport.

For an introduction to our company and a tour of the production facility, please feel free to make an appointment with us.

A detailed brochure and price list can be requested via Das-Fernweh-Mobil.de or downloaded.

Das-Fernweh-Mobil.de | Stand C20

ABENTEUER & ALLRAD 2023

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