Mpox Outbreak Declared a Public Health Emergency of International Concern
WHO Director-General Dr. Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus has declared the growing mpox outbreak in the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) and other African countries as a Public Health Emergency of International Concern (PHEIC). The decision, guided by the advice of an independent Emergency Committee, highlights the urgent need for coordinated international action to prevent the further spread of the disease.
Rapid Spread of New Mpox Strain Raises Global Concerns
The emergence of a new mpox clade in eastern DRC, which is rapidly spreading across neighboring countries, has alarmed health experts. WHO Regional Director for Africa, Dr. Matshidiso Moeti, emphasized the importance of scaling up efforts to curb the virus. With over 15,600 cases and 537 deaths reported this year, the situation is deteriorating quickly, necessitating immediate international intervention.
Global Response Mobilizes to Combat Mpox
In response to the crisis, WHO is accelerating vaccine access and coordinating with international partners to ensure equitable distribution of vaccines, therapeutics, and diagnostics. The organization has already released $1.45 million from its Contingency Fund for Emergencies and anticipates the need for an additional $15 million to support its efforts. WHO urges donors to contribute to the mpox response to prevent further escalation.
