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The World Health Organization reports that Mpox remains a global public health emergency as cases surge worldwide.
The surge in Mpox cases, especially the spread of the clade Ib variant beyond its origin in the Democratic Republic of Congo to neighboring African countries, Europe, and Asia, has raised global concern.
The World Health Organization (WHO) reaffirmed Mpox's classification as a Public Health Emergency of International Concern (PHEIC), citing the resurgence of cases and the virus's expanding geographic reach, as reported by The Express Tribune on Friday.
The WHO's decision follows a meeting of its Emergency Committee, which emphasized rising case numbers, ongoing spread, and the urgent need for a coordinated response. Confirmed cases of clade Ib have been reported in the United Kingdom, Germany, Sweden, and India, showcasing the virus's global impact.
Mpox, a viral disease transmitted through close contact, manifests flu-like symptoms and lesions. While often mild, the disease can be fatal in areas with limited healthcare access. Over 46,000 suspected cases have been reported in Africa this year, with Congo accounting for more than 1,000 suspected deaths.
The renewed PHEIC declaration highlights the threat posed by clade Ib, following earlier concerns about a different strain during the 2022-2023 outbreak.
To address these challenges, the WHO has expanded vaccine authorizations, including Bavarian Nordic's Mpox vaccine and Japan's KM Biologics' emergency-use vaccine approved in September.
Despite criticism over delays in vaccine distribution, WHO officials reaffirmed vaccination as a key strategy in combating the outbreak. "The emergency status underscores the urgency to mount a unified global response," stated a WHO spokesperson.
The organization urged nations and health partners to collaborate on mass vaccination efforts and enhance public awareness to effectively curb the virus's spread.
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Source: business-standard
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