The World Health Organization (WHO) has declared mpox a global public health emergency for the second time in two years.
This comes after a new outbreak in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) has spread to nearby countries.
On Wednesday, an emergency committee met to advise WHO Director-General, Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, on whether the outbreak should be labeled a “public health emergency of international concern” (PHEIC).
Tedros Ghebreyesus said, “A global effort is needed to stop these outbreaks and save lives. The spread of a new type of mpox in eastern DRC and neighboring areas is very concerning.”
Beyond Boders notes that a PHEIC is the WHO’s highest alert level. It is used for serious events that can spread internationally and need a coordinated global response. This alert helps speed up research, funding, and international health measures.
In response to the outbreak, the Africa CDC has also declared a public health emergency for the continent.
The CDC’s Director-General, Dr. Jean Kaseya, announced a plan to distribute 23 million vaccine doses in 2024, starting with 10 million doses next year. He assured that efforts are being made to ensure vaccines reach all affected areas.
The WHO is supporting the response with $1 million from its emergency fund. An additional $15 million is needed to improve surveillance and response efforts.
Two vaccines for mpox have been approved and will be distributed with the help of Gavi and UNICEF.
