The World Health Organization (WHO) has reaffirmed its status of mpox as a public health emergency of international concern, citing a significant increase in cases and the ongoing geographic spread of the disease. This announcement was made following a meeting of a committee composed of independent experts in Geneva, where the decision was made three months after the initial declaration of the emergency in August.
According to the WHO, the rise in mpox cases is alarming, particularly in the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) and its neighboring countries. The organization highlighted several factors contributing to this decision, including operational challenges in managing the outbreak and the necessity for a coordinated response among countries and partners.
As the number of mpox cases continues to grow, the WHO has noted that the first batch of vaccines, which was distributed last month, has shown potential in helping to contain the outbreak. Nonetheless, the agency is still awaiting substantial evidence to fully assess the effectiveness of the vaccinations in curbing the spread of this contagious disease.
In a related development, the African Union’s health watchdog issued a warning at the end of October, emphasizing that the mpox outbreak remains uncontrolled. The organization has called for increased resources to prevent a potential pandemic that could be more severe than the COVID-19 crisis.
Mpox, while generally mild, can lead to fatal outcomes in rare instances. Reports indicate that the virus has claimed hundreds of lives in the DRC and surrounding regions over the past year. The disease has also spread to other countries, including Burundi, Kenya, Rwanda, Nigeria, and Uganda, prompting a continent-wide emergency response.
The transmission of mpox occurs through close contact with an infected individual, sexual activity, or inhalation of infectious particles. Once contracted, the virus replicates and spreads to the lymph nodes, causing them to swell. This process leads to the manifestation of rashes or lesions on the body.
As the global health community continues to monitor the situation, the WHO’s decision to maintain a high alert level for mpox underscores the need for vigilance and preparedness in the face of emerging health threats.
