WHO: Mpox outbreak is a public health emergency of global concern
Disease escalates in DRC
World Health Organization Director-General Dr Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus has declared the upsurge of the mpox disease in the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) and several other African nations a Public Health Emergency of International Concern (PHEIC).
The PHEIC designation follows the recommendation of an International Health Regulations (IHR) Emergency Committee convened earlier to review the situation.
The Emergency Committee’s assessment highlighted the alarming spread of a new clade of mpox, particularly in eastern DRC, and the increasing number of cases in neighbouring countries.
The Committee expressed concern over the potential for further spread across Africa and beyond. Dr Tedros’s declaration emphasises the need for a coordinated global response to halt the outbreak and mitigate its impact.
Second PHEIC
The PHEIC marks the second such declaration related to mpox in two years. The virus, an Orthopoxvirus first identified in humans in the DRC in 1970, is endemic in central and west Africa. A previous mpox outbreak was declared a PHEIC in July 2022 but was lifted in May 2023 following a sustained decline in cases.
Dr Tedros stated in Geneva, Switzerland: “The emergence of a new clade of mpox, its rapid spread in eastern DRC, and the cases reported in several neighbouring countries are deeply troubling. Given the ongoing outbreaks of other mpox clades in the region, it is evident that an international response is crucial to curb these outbreaks and protect lives.”
WHO Regional Director for Africa, Dr Matshidiso Moeti, affirmed that efforts in collaboration with local communities and governments are already underway.
“Significant actions are being taken to reinforce control measures. With the virus’s expanding reach, we are intensifying our coordinated international efforts to support countries in ending these outbreaks.”
Professor Dimie Ogoina, Chair of the Emergency Committee, emphasised the global nature of the crisis.
“The current upsurge, including a new sexually transmissible strain of the virus, is an emergency not only for Africa but for the entire world. Mpox, which originated in Africa, was neglected there and later caused a global outbreak in 2022. Immediate, decisive action is essential to prevent a repeat of this scenario.”
What is mpox?
Mpox, formerly known as monkeypox, is a viral disease caused by the Orthopoxvirus. It primarily affects regions in central and west Africa but has caused global concern due to recent outbreaks.
Symptoms include fever, rash, and swollen lymph nodes. Severe cases can lead to complications such as pneumonia or encephalitis.
The virus can spread through contact with infected individuals, animals, or contaminated materials. Recent outbreaks have highlighted the emergence of new strains and increased transmission, mainly through sexual networks. Vaccines are available and recommended to prevent infection, and ongoing efforts are being made to enhance global response and control measures.
Recent data reveals a significant rise in mpox cases, with more than 15,600 infections and 537 deaths reported this year alone, surpassing last year’s figures. The emergence of the new clade 1b, primarily spread through sexual networks and now detected in neighbouring countries such as Burundi, Kenya, Rwanda, and Uganda, is particularly concerning.
To combat the outbreak, the WHO has endorsed using two vaccines approved by its Strategic Advisory Group of Experts on Immunisation and national regulatory authorities. The WHO has initiated the Emergency Use Listing process to expedite vaccine access for lower-income countries lacking national regulatory approval.
Donor appeal
In response to the crisis, WHO has released $1.45 million from its Contingency Fund for Emergencies and anticipates an immediate need for $15 million to support surveillance, preparedness, and response activities. The WHO has called on donors to fund the full extent of the response needs.
WHO also works with vaccine manufacturers and partners, including Gavi and UNICEF, to facilitate equitable access to vaccines, therapeutics, and diagnostics through the interim Medical Countermeasures Network.
As the global community mobilises to address this health emergency, the WHO’s swift action underscores the urgency of a collective effort to control the spread of mpox and safeguard public health worldwide.
Featured image: WHO Director-General Dr Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus declares the mpox outbreak in DRC a Public Health Emergency of International Concern (PHEIC). Credit: WHO/Lindsay Mackenzie
