The World Health Organization (WHO) has announced that M-Pox will remain classified as a Public Health Emergency of International Concern (PHEIC) due to a resurgence in cases and the virus’s continued geographic spread.
Initially declared in August, the emergency status was reaffirmed after a meeting of the WHO Emergency Committee, according to The Express Tribune. The decision reflects the surge in M-Pox cases, particularly the spread of the clade Ib variant from its origin in the Democratic Republic of Congo to neighboring African nations, Europe, and Asia.
“Rising case numbers, the ongoing geographic spread, and the need for a coordinated response make it critical to retain the emergency status,” the WHO stated.
Confirmed clade Ib cases have been reported in countries such as the United Kingdom, Germany, Sweden, and India, demonstrating the global reach of the outbreak. M-Pox, a viral disease transmitted through close contact, causes flu-like symptoms and lesions. While often mild, the disease can be fatal, particularly in regions with limited healthcare access. This year, Africa has reported over 46,000 suspected cases, with the Democratic Republic of Congo accounting for more than 1,000 suspected deaths.
The renewed PHEIC declaration highlights the threat posed by clade Ib, following similar alerts during the 2022-2023 outbreak linked to a different strain.
In response to the crisis, the WHO has expanded vaccine authorizations. Earlier this year, Bavarian Nordic’s M-Pox vaccine was approved, and Japan’s KM Biologics’ vaccine was added to the emergency-use list in September. However, the WHO has faced criticism over delays in vaccine distribution.
Despite challenges, the organization emphasized the importance of vaccination as a cornerstone of global response efforts. “The emergency status underscores the urgency of a unified global response,” a WHO spokesperson stated, urging countries and health partners to enhance vaccination campaigns and public awareness to contain the virus effectively.