Mpox: WHO Declares 2024 Surge a Public Health Emergency
Growing Outbreaks in Africa Trigger Emergency Declaration, Fears of Wider Spread
Clade I Outbreak in DRC Raises Concerns, Mostly Affecting Children
The World Health Organization (WHO) has declared the ongoing mpox outbreak in Africa a global health emergency, citing the unprecedented surge in cases in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC). The outbreak, caused by the more severe clade I type of the monkeypox virus, has infected tens of thousands of people and killed hundreds. The outbreak in the DRC is distinct from the one that spread around the world in 2022, which was caused by the clade II strain. Clade I is more severe and has a higher fatality rate, especially in children and immunocompromised individuals. The WHO's declaration of a global health emergency reflects the growing concern over the outbreak's potential to spread beyond Africa. In 2024 alone, the DRC has reported over 15,000 cases and 500 deaths.
- The outbreak is most severe in children, who make up the majority of cases and deaths.
- Western countries were largely able to control the spread of mpox in 2022.
- The DRC's outbreak is the largest surge in clade I mpox cases ever recorded.
The WHO is urging countries to take immediate action to prevent the further spread of mpox, including strengthening surveillance, vaccination campaigns, and public health measures.
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