Epoch HealthWorld Health Organization Declares Mpox Outbreak in Africa a Global Health Emergency

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The World Health Organization (WHO) has declared the mpox outbreak in Africa a global health emergency, marking a significant shift in the international response to this evolving public health challenge. This declaration comes in response to a substantial increase in cases and deaths, as well as the emergence of a new, potentially more virulent strain of the virus.

Key Points:

• WHO reports more than 14,000 cases and 524 deaths in Africa in 2024, a significant increase from the previous year
• A new mpox strain (clade 1b) has emerged in the Democratic Republic of Congo, spreading to other African countries
• Clade 1b is historically associated with more severe disease compared to clade 2
• The WHO estimates $15 million is needed for response efforts, including providing diagnostic equipment and training healthcare workers
• African health authorities aim to secure more than 10 million vaccine doses, with only 200,000 currently available
• US and European health agencies currently assess the risk as low outside of Africa
• Healthcare providers are advised to be vigilant for potential cases, especially in patients with recent travel to affected regions

“We believe that it’s already a risk for international spread. And of course, there is also the chance that it could spread beyond Africa to other regions of the world.”
– Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, WHO Director-General

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