WHO Declares Global Public Health Emergency as Mpox Outbreak in Congo Spreads Across Borders

World Health Organization (WHO) has declared Mpox a global public health emergency, following a severe outbreak in the Democratic Republic of Congo that has rapidly spread to neighboring countries.

The outbreak, which began in Congo with the spread of an endemic strain known as clade I, has intensified with the emergence of a new variant, clade Ib. This variant appears to transmit more easily through close contact, including sexual contact, raising alarm across the region.

The WHO’s emergency committee, after a thorough assessment, advised Director-General Dr. Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus to designate the situation as a “public health emergency of international concern” (PHEIC), the organization’s highest level of alert. This designation aims to accelerate research, funding, and international cooperation to contain the disease.

Dr. Tedros emphasized the need for a coordinated global response, stating, “It’s clear that a coordinated international response is essential to stop these outbreaks and save lives.”

The outbreak has not only affected Congo but has also spread to countries such as Burundi, Kenya, Rwanda, and Uganda, prompting widespread concern. The WHO has already released $1.5 million in contingency funds, with plans to release more to support the response efforts. The overall response plan will require an initial $15 million, and WHO is appealing to donors for additional funding.

Earlier this week, Africa’s top public health body also declared an mpox emergency for the continent, citing over 17,000 suspected cases and more than 500 deaths this year, predominantly among children in Congo.

Professor Dimie Ogoina, chair of WHO’s mpox emergency committee, highlighted the seriousness of the situation, noting that the current upsurge in cases is an “extraordinary event.” He pointed out the need for further study of transmission routes, especially as vaccines are not yet available.