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The WHO has declared mpox a “public health emergency of international concern” following a surge in cases in the Democratic Republic of Congo and neighboring countries. With over 14,000 cases and 524 deaths, the WHO is mobilizing a $15 million response plan to combat the outbreak.
The World Health Organization (WHO) has declared mpox a “public health emergency of international concern,” marking a significant escalation in response to the virus's rapid spread. This declaration follows a similar decision by the Africa Centre for Disease Control, which recognized the outbreak as a “public health emergency of continental security.”
The latest report reveals that over 14,000 cases and 524 deaths have been recorded in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) this year, with a new variant, clade 1b, contributing to the surge. The virus has also extended its reach to neighboring countries such as Burundi, Kenya, and Rwanda, affecting particularly vulnerable populations including children.
Tedros Ghebreyesus, WHO Director-General, confirmed that the emergency committee’s recommendation led to this global alert. He emphasized the need for an international response to manage the crisis effectively. The WHO is coordinating efforts with various stakeholders, including the Africa CDC, to deploy essential resources. This includes providing diagnostic tools, supporting case investigations, and enhancing vaccination strategies.
To support these initiatives, the WHO has outlined a $15 million regional response plan and has already committed $1.45 million from its emergency fund. The organization is actively seeking further funding to sustain and expand its response efforts, aiming to contain the outbreak and mitigate its impact across affected regions.
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