Global Alarm as WHO Declares Monkeypox a Public Health Emergency

Thursday 15 August 2024 - 15:30

A New Strain Sparks Urgent International Response

In a major development, the World Health Organization (WHO) has declared the recent outbreak of mpox in the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) and neighboring African nations a “public health emergency of international concern (PHIOC).” This is the second such declaration in two years, signaling the gravity of the situation.

The announcement by WHO Director-General Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus follows the rapid spread of a new clade of the mpox virus in eastern DRC and its emergence in countries such as Burundi, Kenya, Rwanda, and Uganda regions previously unaffected. The decision came after consultations with an Emergency Committee of independent experts, underscoring the urgent need for coordinated global action.

Rising Cases and New Challenges

The outbreak has led to over 15,600 cases and 537 deaths this year, exceeding last year’s figures. “The emergence of a new clade of mpox, its rapid spread in eastern DRC, and the reporting of cases in several neighboring countries are very worrying,” Tedros stated.

Matshidiso Moeti, WHO Regional Director for Africa, emphasized ongoing efforts to curb the virus's spread, highlighting collaboration with governments and communities in affected areas.

Global Implications

Professor Dimie Ogoina, Chair of the Emergency Committee, stressed the global significance of the outbreak, noting the spread of a new sexually transmissible strain. This development poses a threat not only to Africa but to the entire globe.

In response, WHO has expedited the Emergency Use Listing (EUL) process for mpox vaccines, inviting manufacturers to submit their vaccines for emergency evaluation. This initiative aims to enhance access, especially in lower-income countries.

Funding and Preparedness

WHO anticipates a funding requirement of $15 million to support surveillance and response activities. Already, $1.45 million has been released from the Contingency Fund for Emergencies, with potential for more if needed.

Emerging Transmission Methods

Moroccan doctor Tayeb Hamdi has raised concerns about the increased lethality of the current strain, with a 3% mortality rate. He warned of the virus's broader transmission potential, affecting individuals beyond those in direct sexual contact. The virus can spread through direct skin contact and contaminated objects, posing a significant challenge to containment.

Hamdi also highlighted the virus’s spread into urban areas with major transportation hubs, emphasizing the urgency for international solidarity and enhanced public health measures to control the outbreak.

As the global community grapples with this escalating crisis, the need for swift and decisive action has never been more critical.