WHO Declares Mpox a Global Public Health Emergency

22nd August 2024 By The Global Heroes Health

The World Health Organization (WHO) has declared mpox a Public Health Emergency of International Concern (PHEIC), its highest alert level, due to a new variant of the virus spreading in Africa. This marks the second time in two years that such an alert has been issued for mpox.

The declaration follows a significant outbreak in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), which has extended to neighboring countries. WHO Director-General Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus announced the decision after consulting the organization’s emergency committee. "This is something that should concern us all," Tedros stated, emphasizing WHO’s commitment to coordinating a global response to prevent further transmission, treat those infected, and save lives.

The PHEIC designation can expedite research, funding, and international public health measures, triggering global emergency responses under the legally binding International Health Regulations. Mpox typically spreads through close contact and, while usually mild, can be fatal in rare instances. Symptoms include flu-like signs and pus-filled lesions on the body.

The current outbreak began with the clade I strain in the DRC, but a new variant, clade Ib, appears to be spreading more rapidly. This variant has been detected in Burundi, Kenya, Rwanda, and Uganda.

Earlier, Africa’s top public health body also declared an mpox emergency for the continent, citing an alarming increase in cases. Over 17,000 suspected mpox cases and 517 deaths have been reported across Africa this year, representing a 160% increase compared to the same period last year, according to the Africa Centres for Disease Control and Prevention.