The WHO secretary-general announced that the new mpox virus outbreak can be controlled. Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus emphasized the need for coordinated global efforts involving international agencies, local partners, civil society, and researchers.
Since 2022, over 100,000 mpox cases have been reported globally, with a significant surge in Africa. Tedros noted that in 2024, 90% of cases are in the Democratic Republic of the Congo, with over 16,000 suspected cases and 575 deaths reported this year.
The virus remains a public health emergency. In July, the Clade 1b strain was detected not only in neighboring Congo countries like Kenya and Uganda but also in Thailand and Sweden, marking new regions for the virus’s spread.
To halt the outbreak, the WHO and partners launched a Global mpox Virus Strategic Preparedness and Response Plan. This plan emphasizes surveillance, research, equitable medical access, zoonotic transmission prevention, and community engagement.
WHO collaborates with global, regional, and local partners to enhance virus preparedness. The WHO Regional Office for Africa and the Africa CDC are leading coordinated efforts in Africa, focusing on areas with the highest needs.
