In a recent development, the World Health Organization (WHO) has declared mpox a Public Health Emergency of International Concern (PHEIC), marking the highest level of alert in its response to a concerning outbreak. This decision, announced on Wednesday, reflects the escalating severity of a new variant of the mpox virus, which is now spreading across several African nations.
A Growing Crisis
The declaration comes in response to a significant rise in mpox cases, with the new variant detected in 13 African countries. The outbreak, which began in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), has now extended to neighboring countries, raising alarms across the globe. WHO Director-General Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus confirmed the PHEIC status after the emergency committee’s recommendation, emphasizing the urgent need for global vigilance and coordinated action.
“This is something that should concern us all,” Tedros stated during a press conference. He assured that the WHO is committed to spearheading a global response, focusing on preventing further transmission, treating those affected, and saving lives through enhanced international collaboration.
Implications of the PHEIC Declaration
The PHEIC declaration triggers a series of critical actions aimed at curbing the spread of mpox. It paves the way for accelerated research, increased funding, and the implementation of emergency measures under the International Health Regulations. This level of alert is designed to prompt immediate global responses and mobilize resources to address the outbreak effectively.
Mpox, characterized by flu-like symptoms and distinctive pus-filled lesions, can spread through close contact and, although often mild, can be fatal in rare cases. The new variant, clade Ib, appears to be more transmissible than the original clade I strain, contributing to the current surge in cases.
Current Situation and Response Efforts
The outbreak has led to a sharp increase in reported cases, with over 17,000 suspected mpox cases and 517 deaths recorded in Africa this year alone. This represents a 160 percent increase in cases compared to the same period last year. The Africa Centres for Disease Control and Prevention (Africa CDC) has responded by declaring a regional emergency and collaborating with international partners to bolster the response.
An agreement has been reached with the EU’s health task force and Bavarian Nordic, the vaccine manufacturer, to provide an initial 215,000 doses of mpox vaccine to Africa. Negotiations are ongoing to secure a total of two million doses by the end of the year and ten million by the end of 2025. Additionally, efforts are underway to enhance public awareness through media campaigns, targeting both traditional and social media platforms to reach affected communities.
Historical Context and Future Outlook
This is the second time in two years that the WHO has issued a global health emergency for mpox. The first alert was declared in July 2022 in response to the global spread of the clade IIb variant, which predominantly affected men who have sex with men. That outbreak led to approximately 90,000 cases and 140 deaths before the alert was lifted in May 2023.
As the new variant continues to spread, the international community faces the challenge of managing this urgent health crisis while reinforcing preventive measures and treatments. The WHO’s latest declaration underscores the need for a united global effort to control the outbreak and protect public health worldwide.
