WHO to convene emergency meeting on mpox on Nov. 22
The World Health Organization (WHO) will convene a meeting of its Emergency Committee next week to assess whether mpox continues to constitute a global health emergency, the UN health body announced on Monday. This follows the ongoing spread of the disease, particularly in parts of Africa, and the continued threat posed by the virus.
In August 2022, the WHO declared mpox a public health emergency of international concern (PHEIC), the highest level of alert. This decision came after a new variant of the virus, known as clade Ib, emerged in Africa, sparking concerns over its potential for widespread transmission. Since then, cases have continued to rise, with 46,794 confirmed and suspected cases reported across Africa as of November 3, 2024. The outbreak has claimed at least 1,081 lives, with the Democratic Republic of Congo, Burundi, and Uganda being the hardest-hit countries.
Mpox, which is primarily spread through close contact, generally causes flu-like symptoms and pus-filled skin lesions. While the disease is usually mild, it can be fatal in rare cases. Health experts have expressed concern over its continued spread, particularly in areas with limited healthcare infrastructure.
In response to the ongoing outbreak, the WHO has begun distributing initial vaccine doses to the nine African countries most affected by the virus. The move is part of an international effort to curb further transmission and reduce the impact of the disease on vulnerable populations.
As the Emergency Committee prepares to evaluate the current status of mpox, the WHO will assess whether the virus still presents a global health threat, or if the situation can be managed as a localized issue.
