WHO Extends Global Emergency Alert for Mpox Amid Rising African Cases
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The World Health Organization (WHO) has prolonged its highest alert level for mpox (monkeypox), declaring the outbreak a Public Health Emergency of International Concern (PHEIC). This decision, announced in June 2025, comes in response to the continued spread of the virus, particularly in Central and Eastern Africa, despite a decline in cases globally as the initial 2022 outbreak. WHO data indicates that over 37,000 confirmed cases and 125 deaths have been reported across 25 countries since the start of 2024.
Dr. Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, WHO Director-General, emphasized that the mpox outbreak still meets the criteria for a PHEIC, necessitating ongoing international coordination and response efforts. The alert aims to mobilize global resources,facilitate research,and ensure equitable access to vaccines and treatments.
Why the Global alert Remains in Effect
The WHO’s decision to maintain the global alert is based on several key factors:
- Continued Transmission: mpox continues to actively circulate, especially in regions like the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), which accounts for approximately 60% of global cases and 40% of deaths.
- Emergence of New Clades: The emergence of a new viral clade, known as clade 1b, is raising concerns due to its increased transmissibility. This variant is rapidly spreading among neighboring countries in East Africa, including Burundi, Kenya, uganda, and Rwanda.
- Mode of Transmission: Transmission remains primarily linked to sexual contact, particularly among men who have sex with men (MSM), which presents challenges for targeted prevention strategies.
- Vaccine Inequity: Unequal access to vaccines persists, with high demand in Africa where vaccine supplies are insufficient to contain the epidemic. An estimated 10 million doses are needed by the end of 2025 to effectively address the outbreak.
Did You Know? The WHO initially declared mpox a global health emergency in July 2022, marking the highest level of alert the organization can issue.
Mpox in Africa: A Critical Challenge
The African continent is facing a notable mpox crisis, with cases increasing by 160% in 2024, resulting in nearly 19,000 infections and over 500 deaths. The DRC is at the epicenter of this crisis, but the epidemic extends far beyond its borders. The CDC reports that mpox is endemic in several African countries.
Several factors contribute to the spread of mpox in Africa, including rapid urbanization, deforestation, wildlife trade, and increased human mobility. These conditions create an environment conducive to the transmission and evolution of the virus. Some experts believe that Africa has become a “laboratory” for studying new clades and their behavior.
Strategies to Combat Mpox
Combating the mpox outbreak requires a multi-faceted approach:
- Vaccination: The WHO is actively working to expedite the authorization and distribution of vaccines, particularly through partnerships with GAVI and UNICEF. However,logistical challenges,costs,and social acceptance remain significant barriers.
- Surveillance: Enhanced surveillance is crucial for detecting cases early and monitoring the evolution of viral variants. This information is essential for anticipating and controlling the spread of the virus.
- International Cooperation: Coordinated efforts between developed and developing countries are essential to address the global mpox threat. Mpox does not respect borders, and a collaborative approach is necessary to effectively contain the outbreak.
Pro Tip: Staying informed about mpox symptoms and transmission methods is crucial for protecting yourself and your community.
Mpox Cases and Deaths by Region (2024)
| Region | Confirmed cases | Deaths |
|---|---|---|
| africa | 19,000 | 500+ |
| Other Regions | 18,000 | ~120 |
The Future of mpox: What to Expect
While mpox cases have declined globally since the peak of the 2022 outbreak, the ongoing situation in Africa and the emergence of new clades highlight the need for continued vigilance and proactive measures. The WHO’s extended global emergency alert underscores the importance of sustained efforts to prevent further spread, develop effective treatments, and ensure equitable access to vaccines.
What steps can individuals take to protect themselves from mpox? How can international cooperation be strengthened to address global health emergencies like the mpox outbreak?
Evergreen Insights on Mpox
Mpox,caused by the monkeypox virus,is a viral zoonotic disease that can spread from animals to humans and also between humans. Symptoms typically include fever, headache, muscle aches, swollen lymph nodes, and a characteristic rash that develops into fluid-filled blisters. While most cases are mild, severe complications can occur, especially in individuals with weakened immune systems or young children.
The virus was frist discovered in 1958 in colonies of monkeys kept for research, leading to its name. The first human case was recorded in 1970 in the Democratic Republic of congo. As then, mpox has been reported in several African countries and, more recently, in other parts of the world.
Historically, mpox outbreaks have been linked to contact with infected animals, such as rodents and primates.However, the recent global outbreak has primarily been driven by human-to-human transmission, particularly through close physical contact, including sexual contact.
Frequently Asked Questions About Mpox
- What is mpox, and how is it different from smallpox?
- Mpox is a viral disease similar to smallpox, but generally milder. It is indeed caused by the monkeypox virus, while smallpox was caused by the variola virus. Smallpox has been eradicated, but mpox continues to circulate, primarily in Africa.
- How does mpox spread from person to person?
- Mpox spreads through close physical contact with an infected person,their bodily fluids,or contaminated materials such as clothing or bedding. respiratory droplets can also transmit the virus,but prolonged face-to-face contact is typically required.
- What are the symptoms of mpox, and when do they appear?
- Symptoms of mpox typically include fever, headache, muscle aches, swollen lymph nodes, and a rash that develops into blisters. Symptoms usually appear within 5 to 21 days after exposure.
- Is there a vaccine for mpox, and who should get vaccinated?
- Yes, there are vaccines available for mpox. Vaccination is recommended for individuals at high risk of exposure, such as healthcare workers, laboratory personnel, and close contacts of infected individuals.
- What should I do if I think I have mpox?
- If you think you have mpox, isolate yourself from others and seek medical attention instantly. Contact your healthcare provider or local health department for guidance and testing.
- How effective are the mpox vaccines currently available?
- The mpox vaccines, such as JYNNEOS, have demonstrated high efficacy in preventing severe disease. Two doses are typically required for optimal protection.
- What is the WHO doing to combat the global mpox outbreak?
- The WHO is coordinating international efforts to monitor the outbreak, provide guidance to countries, facilitate access to vaccines and treatments, and conduct research to better understand the virus and its transmission.
Disclaimer: This article provides general information about mpox and should not be considered medical advice.Consult with a healthcare professional for diagnosis and treatment.
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