The World Health Organization (WHO) has declared mpox, previously known as monkeypox, a Public Health Emergency of International Concern (PHEIC) for the second time in two years. This decision was made in light of a significant rise in cases, particularly following an outbreak in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) that has rapidly spread to neighboring countries.
During a press briefing, WHO Director-General Dr. Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus highlighted the urgency of a coordinated international response to combat the outbreak. He stated, “This declaration underscores the need for immediate action to prevent further transmission and protect vulnerable populations.” The WHO’s PHEIC designation aims to enhance global funding, research, and collaborative public health measures to contain the virus.
Mpox, a viral zoonosis with flu-like symptoms and characteristic lesions, has historically been endemic to Central and West Africa. However, the emergence of a new variant, clade Ib, which spreads more easily through close contact, has raised concerns. This variant has already been detected in several countries that had not previously reported cases, including Burundi, Kenya, Rwanda, and Uganda.
The WHO has released $1.5 million in contingency funds to support immediate response efforts and plans to seek additional funding to address the outbreak. In 2024 alone, there have been over 17,000 suspected cases and more than 500 deaths attributed to mpox, predominantly affecting children in the DRC.
Dr. Tedros emphasized the need for enhanced surveillance, vaccination efforts, and public awareness campaigns to mitigate the spread of mpox. The WHO is also appealing to countries with vaccine stockpiles to assist in the response, as no vaccines are currently available for widespread use.