The World Health Organization (WHO) has reaffirmed that the recent surge in Mpox cases continues to qualify as a Public Health Emergency of International Concern (PHEIC), in line with the standards set by the International Health Regulations (IHR).

The decision follows the fourth meeting of the IHR Emergency Committee on Mpox, held on June 5, according to a statement by WHO Director-General, Dr. Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus.

Dr. Ghebreyesus stated that while some countries have made progress in managing outbreaks, the committee advised that the global situation still warrants emergency status due to the ongoing increase in cases—particularly in West Africa—and possible undetected transmission in other parts of the world.

He emphasized the operational challenges faced by affected regions, including weak surveillance systems, limited diagnostic capabilities, and inadequate funding. These issues, he said, continue to hinder an effective global response and underscore the need for sustained international cooperation.

In agreement with the committee’s recommendations, Dr. Ghebreyesus issued updated temporary guidelines to support member states currently managing Mpox outbreaks. These recommendations are intended to bolster national efforts to contain and prevent further spread of the disease.

The full report from the committee’s fourth meeting is expected to be released in the third week of June.

Mpox was first declared a PHEIC on August 14, 2024, following a significant spike in infections in the Democratic Republic of the Congo and its transmission to neighboring countries. Since then, the committee has convened three more times, consistently advising that the situation remains a global health emergency.

(NAN)