WHO Maintains Mpox as Global Health Emergency Amid Ongoing Outbreak

The Democratic Republic of Congo remains the epicenter, with vaccination efforts showing early signs of progress but challenges persisting across Africa.

• The World Health Organization has decided to keep mpox classified as a Public Health Emergency of International Concern due to its continued spread and operational challenges in controlling the outbreak.
• The Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) accounts for over 90% of global mpox deaths this year, with more than 46,000 suspected cases and at least 1,000 suspected fatalities across Africa.
• Vaccination campaigns in the DRC, initiated in October with 265,000 donated doses, have led to a reduction in new cases, but experts caution it is too early to declare the outbreak under control.
• A newly identified strain, Clade 1b, has been linked to more severe cases, disproportionately affecting children, with 30% of infections reported in this demographic.
• Neighboring countries, including Uganda, Rwanda, and Nigeria, are also experiencing outbreaks, prompting calls for sustained international support to prevent further escalation.

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