WHO Declares End of International Health Emergency for Mpox

The World Health Organization (WHO) has officially lifted the designation of Mpox, previously known as monkeypox, as an international health emergency. This decision follows a recommendation from an independent panel of experts and comes in response to a significant decrease in Mpox cases in several regions, particularly in Africa.

During a press briefing in Geneva, WHO Director-General Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus highlighted the declining infection rates in the most affected countries, noting that advancements in the understanding of the disease's transmission and risk factors have contributed to this shift. However, he cautioned that the threat is not entirely eliminated, urging health authorities to remain vigilant.

Despite the overall reduction in cases, Mpox continues to pose a risk, particularly in certain African nations where infections are still prevalent. Recent reports indicate that cases have surfaced in countries such as Germany, the United Kingdom, China, and Turkey, primarily among individuals who contracted the virus while traveling.

The symptoms of Mpox typically include fever and a rash, and while the infection is often mild, it can be severe and potentially fatal in vulnerable populations, including young children and individuals with weakened immune systems. The European Centre for Disease Prevention and Control (ECDC) has assessed the risk of transmission within Europe as low as of late July.

Since the beginning of the year, WHO has recorded cases in 81 countries, with 34,386 confirmed infections and 138 related deaths reported globally as of August 28. A significant portion of these cases--over 80 percent--have been documented in the Democratic Republic of the Congo, Uganda, Sierra Leone, and Burundi.

Experts believe the actual number of cases may be higher than reported, as not all infections are diagnosed or recorded. Various strains of the virus are currently circulating, including Clade Ia, Clade Ib, and Clade IIb.

The Public Health Emergency of International Concern (PHEIC) is the highest alert status that the WHO can declare, aimed at prompting governments and health agencies worldwide to take proactive measures against potential outbreaks and to fund response efforts.