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| Mpox Resurgence: WHO Declares Global Health Emergency Amid Spread of Deadlier Variant and Rising Cases Image credit: NDTV |
The World Health Organization (WHO) has declared a public health emergency of international concern (PHEIC) in response to a resurgence of mpox, formerly known as monkeypox. This decision follows a significant rise in cases across Africa and the emergence of a new, more lethal variant of the virus. The declaration signals the urgent need for a coordinated global response to contain the outbreak.
A New Deadly Variant Emerges
Recent outbreaks have seen the spread of a new mpox variant, known as clade Ib, which is proving to be more deadly than the strains observed in 2022. According to the WHO, this variant has a mortality rate of 3-4% and is rapidly spreading, particularly in the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) and neighboring countries. The virus, which was previously transmitted mainly through sexual contact, is now affecting a broader demographic, including children, healthcare workers, and entire households, raising concerns about its transmission through other forms of direct contact.
A Global Threat: Mpox's Return
Mpox, a viral disease caused by a virus related to smallpox, was primarily a zoonotic disease transmitted from animals to humans. However, this changed in early 2022 when widespread human-to-human transmission was documented outside Africa. Over 90,000 cases across more than 100 countries were reported, leading the WHO to issue its first PHEIC for mpox in July 2022. Although the situation improved with vaccination and awareness campaigns, the virus has reemerged with a new variant that poses a significant threat worldwide.
Rising Cases and Limited Vaccine Supplies
This year alone, over 14,000 suspected or confirmed cases of mpox and 524 deaths have been reported, mostly concentrated in the DRC. While the U.S. has replenished its supply of the Jynneos vaccine, which is effective against mpox, African countries are struggling to secure adequate supplies. Experts warn that the initial vaccine supply will likely fall short of the 3 million doses needed by the end of the year.
WHO's Efforts and the Need for Global Support
In response to the growing crisis, the WHO has accelerated the emergency approval of vaccines in lower-income countries and released $1.45 million from its emergency contingency fund. The organization is also working to coordinate vaccine donations from wealthier nations and pharmaceutical companies. However, these efforts are not enough. The WHO estimates that at least $15 million is urgently needed to fund surveillance, preparedness, and response activities. The organization plans to appeal to donors for additional funding to combat the spread of mpox effectively.
The Urgent Need for Action
WHO Director-General Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus emphasized the gravity of the situation, stating, “The emergence of a new clade of mpox, its rapid spread in eastern DRC, and the reporting of cases in several neighboring countries are very worrying. It’s clear that a coordinated international response is needed to stop these outbreaks and save lives.” As the virus continues to spread, global cooperation and swift action are crucial to preventing further escalation of the outbreak.
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