The World Health Organization (WHO) has declared mpox (formerly known as monkeypox) a global public health emergency for the second time in two years, following an outbreak in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) that has spread to neighbouring countries.
This decision was made after an emergency committee convened to advise WHO Director-General Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus on whether the outbreak constitutes a “Public Health Emergency of International Concern” (PHEIC).
Statement from WHO
Tedros highlighted the seriousness of the situation, stating:
“It’s clear that a coordinated international response is essential to stop these outbreaks and save lives. The detection and rapid spread of a new clade of mpox in eastern DRC, its detection in neighboring countries that had not previously reported mpox, and the potential for further spread within Africa and beyond is very worrying.”
Understanding PHEIC
A Public Health Emergency of International Concern (PHEIC) is the highest alert level issued by the WHO. It is declared for extraordinary events that pose a public health risk through international spread and may require a coordinated global response. The criteria for a PHEIC include being serious, sudden, unusual, or unexpected, with implications beyond the affected country’s borders. This status accelerates research and funding, enhances international public health measures, and prompts immediate, coordinated actions. Previous PHEICs include the Ebola outbreak, the COVID-19 pandemic, and the mpox outbreaks in 2022.
Background and Response
In response to the rapidly spreading mpox outbreak, the Africa Centres for Disease Control and Prevention (Africa CDC) declared a continental security public health emergency. Africa CDC’s Director-General, Dr. Jean Kaseya, announced a comprehensive strategy to combat the spread of mpox, including the deployment of 23 million vaccine doses in 2024. The initial distribution will begin with 10 million doses next year.
Dr. Kaseya expressed confidence in the availability and distribution of these vaccines across African nations, assuring that Africa CDC is working with partners and manufacturers to ensure that vaccines reach every country, community, and individual in need.
Additionally, WHO has taken significant steps to support the mpox response in Africa. Dr. Tedros announced the release of $1 million from the Contingency Fund for Emergencies. They highlighted the urgent need for further funding, with a regional response plan requiring $15 million to enhance surveillance, preparedness, and response activities.
Vaccine Distribution
Two vaccines for mpox have been approved by WHO-listed national regulatory authorities and recommended by WHO’s Strategic Advisory Group of Experts on Immunization (SAGE). Dr. Tedros has initiated the Emergency Use Listing process for these vaccines, which will be distributed through Gavi and UNICEF.
