WHO Considers Major Response to Escalating Mpox Outbreak in Africa…
The World Health Organisation (WHO) is considering a significant action in response to a rapidly worsening mpox outbreak in Africa. Dr. Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, WHO’s Director-General, has indicated the potential convening of an expert committee to assess whether the outbreak should be classified as a public health emergency of international concern (PHEIC). This consideration follows a troubling rise in cases, particularly in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), where a more virulent strain of the virus has also been detected in neighbouring countries.
Since September of last year, the DRC has experienced a sharp increase in mpox cases, exacerbated by the emergence of a more dangerous virus strain in surrounding regions. The WHO, in collaboration with the Africa Centres for Disease Control and Prevention, local governments, and various partners, is ramping up efforts to address the crisis. However, Dr. Tedros has underscored the urgent need for additional funding and resources to ensure a comprehensive response.
In a statement shared on the social media platform X, Dr. Tedros voiced his concern over the escalating impact of the outbreak and emphasised the necessity for stronger measures. He noted that he is contemplating the convening of an International Health Regulations (IHR) emergency committee to determine whether the situation warrants a PHEIC declaration. Such a declaration would represent the WHO’s highest level of alert, prompting a coordinated international response.
The recent surge in mpox cases, particularly within the DRC, has raised significant alarm. As of July 11, Dr. Tedros reported over 11,000 cases and 445 deaths in the DRC, with a particularly high impact on children. In response, the African Union has urgently allocated $10.4 million from COVID-19 funds to bolster efforts in combating the outbreak. This funding is aimed at improving surveillance, testing, data collection, case management, and vaccine distribution.
Beyond the DRC, recent mpox cases have been reported in Burundi, Kenya, and Uganda, with Uganda confirming its first two cases, likely connected to the ongoing outbreak in the DRC.
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