The World Health Organization (WHO) has reclassified Mpox as a global public health emergency due to a sharp rise in cases in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) and surrounding regions. The declaration, issued on Wednesday, signifies the WHO’s highest alert level, known as a Public Health Emergency of International Concern (PHEIC).
Mpox, a viral infection spread through close contact, typically causes flu-like symptoms and a rash of pus-filled lesions. Though often mild, it can be severe or fatal in some instances. This year, the outbreak has intensified dramatically. The DRC has reported over 14,000 Mpox cases and 524 deaths, with women and children under 15 being particularly at risk.
This marks the second time in three years that Mpox has been declared a global emergency. The initial declaration in July 2022 saw the virus spread to nearly 100,000 individuals across 116 countries, resulting in approximately 200 deaths. The current situation is even more critical, prompting the Africa Centres for Disease Control and Prevention (Africa CDC) to also declare an emergency for the continent. Africa CDC has reported over 17,000 suspected Mpox cases and more than 500 deaths this year, reflecting a significant increase in incidence.
Dr. Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, WHO Director-General, voiced concern over the rapid spread of a new Mpox strain in the DRC and its expansion to neighboring countries. The WHO’s designation will accelerate international efforts to manage and contain the outbreak.