Healthcare Alerts | Infectious Diseases | Mpox

WHO Issues PHEIC Over Rapid Spread of Mpox in DRC and Neighboring African Countries

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Source: WHO Press Release, 14 August 2024

WHO Director-General Dr. Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus has declared the rise of mpox cases in the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) and other African nations as a Public Health Emergency of International Concern (PHEIC).

This decision, following recommendations from an Emergency Committee, emphasizes the rapid spread of a new strain of mpox in the DRC and its detection in neighboring countries such as Burundi, Kenya, Rwanda, and Uganda.

The PHEIC declaration highlights the critical need for a coordinated international effort to prevent further spread and save lives. Mpox, caused by an Orthopoxvirus, has been endemic in Central and West Africa since it was first identified in 1970. The recent emergence of clade 1b, which is mainly spreading through sexual networks, is especially alarming.

WHO is working to enhance response efforts, including the distribution of vaccines, and has released initial emergency funds to support surveillance and preparedness activities. An estimated $15 million is required for a full response, and WHO is seeking additional funding from donors to address the outbreak effectively.


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Access Original Press Release

14 August  2024 | WHO Director-General declares mpox outbreak a public health emergency of international concern

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