MWE Correspondent
The World Health Organization (WHO) has announced that the mpox outbreak is no longer considered a global public health emergency.
Director-General Dr. Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus explained that the decision follows the advice of the WHO Emergency Committee, which meets quarterly to assess the international situation.
Dr. Tedros emphasized that while the emergency status has been lifted, the risk of mpox has not disappeared. “Removing the emergency does not mean the threat is gone. Countries must remain vigilant and continue strengthening public health systems to prevent future outbreaks,” he said.
Mpox, also known as monkeypox, is a viral disease that spreads through close contact, causing flu-like symptoms and distinctive skin lesions. The virus first drew global attention when a new strain caused outbreaks in the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) and neighboring countries, including Burundi, Sierra Leone, and Uganda. The WHO had previously declared mpox a public health emergency of international concern in August 2024, following a rapid spread of the virus in these regions.
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According to international health reports, the lifting of the emergency status reflects the success of global containment efforts, including vaccination campaigns, awareness programs, and improved disease surveillance. However, health experts caution that ongoing monitoring and rapid response capabilities remain critical to preventing future flare-ups.
The African Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (Africa CDC) continues to track the virus, noting that sporadic cases still appear in parts of Africa. Authorities stress that continued collaboration between countries and global health agencies is essential to maintain control over mpox and safeguard public health.
The decision marks a significant milestone in the fight against mpox, demonstrating the progress achieved through coordinated international efforts while underscoring the need for continued vigilance and preparedness.
