WHO Declares M-Pox a Global Health Emergency Amid Rising Cases

The World Health Organisation (WHO) has announced that M-Pox will continue to be classified as a public health emergency of international concern (PHEIC). This decision follows a resurgence in cases and the virus's ongoing spread across different regions. The high-alert status, initially declared in August, was reaffirmed after a meeting of the WHO Emergency Committee.

Global Spread of M-Pox

M-Pox cases have surged, particularly with the spread of the clade Ib variant from the Democratic Republic of Congo to neighboring African nations, Europe, and Asia. Confirmed cases have been detected in the United Kingdom, Germany, Sweden, and India, highlighting the global scale of the outbreak.

Impact and Response

M-Pox is a viral disease transmitted through close contact, presenting flu-like symptoms and lesions. While typically mild, it can be fatal, especially in regions with inadequate healthcare. Over 46,000 suspected cases have been reported in Africa this year, with Congo accounting for the majority of the more than 1,000 suspected deaths.

Vaccine Efforts

In response to the growing threat, the WHO has expanded vaccine authorizations. Bavarian Nordic's M-Pox vaccine was approved earlier this year, and Japan's KM Biologics' vaccine was added to the list of emergency-use vaccines in September. Despite criticism for delays in vaccine distribution, WHO officials emphasize that vaccination is crucial in the global response.

Call for Global Cooperation

The WHO urges countries and health partners to collaborate on widespread vaccination campaigns and enhance public awareness to curb the virus's spread effectively. A WHO spokesperson highlighted the urgency of a unified global response to address the threat posed by M-Pox.