On August 15, 2024, the World Health Organization (WHO) declared the ongoing mpox outbreaks in the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) and other African countries a public health emergency of international concern (PHEIC). This decision was reached following the advice of an IHR Emergency Committee, which reviewed recent data and highlighted the significant risks posed by the current surge of mpox cases. WHO Director-General Dr. Tedros underscored the urgency of the situation, emphasizing the rapid spread of a new mpox strain and the need for a coordinated international response to curb the outbreak and prevent further escalation.
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Dr. Tedros’s declaration of a PHEIC reflects concerns about a new mpox clade. Clade 1b, which is spreading rapidly in eastern DRC and neighboring countries including Burundi, Kenya, Rwanda, and Uganda. This new strain, which appears to be transmitted primarily through sexual contact, has significantly increased the number of cases reported this year. The total number of mpox cases in the DRC has surpassed 15,600, with 537 deaths. The emergence of Clade 1b, coupled with ongoing outbreaks of other mpox clades, has led experts to recommend a heightened global response. The WHO Regional Director for Africa, Dr. Matshidiso Moeti, highlighted the extensive efforts already underway in collaboration with local communities and governments. These efforts are being intensified through international coordination to support countries in their response to the outbreaks. Professor Dimie Ogoina, Chair of the IHR Emergency Committee, emphasized that the current mpox situation is not just a regional issue but a global one, given the potential for further spread and the lessons learned from past outbreaks. In response to the outbreak, WHO is working on scaling up vaccination efforts and has initiated the process for Emergency Use Listing of mpox vaccines to accelerate access in lower-income countries. WHO anticipates an immediate funding requirement of $15 million for effective surveillance, preparedness, and response activities. To support these efforts, WHO has released $1.45 million from the Contingency Fund for Emergencies and is calling on donors to cover the full extent of the financial needs.
The declaration of a PHEIC by WHO underscores the serious nature of the current mpox outbreaks and the need for a unified global response. The spread of Clade 1b and the increased number of cases in multiple African countries highlight the urgency of immediate and coordinated action. WHO’s efforts to secure vaccine access and funding are critical to managing the outbreak and preventing further spread. International collaboration and financial support will be essential in controlling the situation, protecting public health, and addressing the needs of affected communities.
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