WHO Launches Global Mpox Strategy, Including Strategic Vaccinations

1

The World Health Organization (WHO) has unveiled an ambitious global plan to combat the ongoing mpox (formerly known as monkeypox) outbreak, following its recent declaration as a public health emergency of international concern. The strategy, officially rolled out on August 26, 2024, aims to halt human-to-human transmission of the virus through a coordinated global effort that includes strategic vaccinations, enhanced surveillance, and prevention measures.

Covering the six-month period from September 2024 to February 2025, the WHO’s Strategic Preparedness and Response Plan seeks to address the ongoing crisis, particularly in regions hardest hit by the outbreak, such as the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) and neighboring African countries. The plan calls for an estimated $135 million in funding to support these initiatives, which include scaling up staffing in affected areas, expanding research, and ensuring equitable access to medical countermeasures, including vaccines and diagnostic tests​.

The WHO’s vaccination strategy focuses on high-risk populations, particularly close contacts of confirmed cases and healthcare workers who are most likely to be exposed to the virus. This targeted approach aims to break the chains of transmission and protect those most vulnerable. The plan also highlights the need for community engagement, urging local populations to participate actively in prevention efforts

In addition to vaccinations, the plan emphasizes the importance of ongoing surveillance and rapid response to new cases. This includes enhancing data collection and reporting systems to track the spread of the virus and deploying response teams to contain outbreaks swiftly.

The WHO also plans to bolster research efforts to better understand the virus and improve treatment options, with a virtual scientific conference scheduled for later this month to align research objectives with outbreak control​.

The outbreak in the DRC remains particularly concerning, with over 1,000 new cases reported in a single week in mid-August. The African Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (Africa CDC) reported more than 21,300 suspected or confirmed cases across 12 African countries this year alone, with 590 deaths. These numbers underscore the urgent need for a robust and coordinated global response.

WHO Director-General Dr. Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus expressed confidence that the outbreak can be controlled and ultimately stopped, provided that the global community comes together to implement the necessary measures. He emphasized the importance of equitable access to vaccines and other medical tools, particularly in regions where the virus is spreading most rapidly.

Germany has already stepped up by donating 100,000 doses of mpox vaccine to affected countries, marking a significant contribution to the global effort. Other international partners are expected to follow suit as the WHO continues to rally support for its comprehensive plan.

1 COMMENT

LEAVE A REPLY

Please enter your comment!
Please enter your name here