WHO Declares Monkeypox a Global Health Emergency

Geneva-The World Health Organization (WHO) has declared the monkeypox outbreak, now referred to as ‘mpox,’ a public health emergency of international concern. This designation is the highest level of alert under international health law, signaling a coordinated global response is necessary.

According to Philippines News agency, WHO Director-General Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus announced the decision, noting alignment with the Africa CDC’s recent declaration of a regional public health emergency. The disease, primarily reported in over a dozen African countries with the Democratic Republic of Congo at the epicenter, spreads through close contact and is characterized by rashes and flu-like symptoms. The WHO is now mobilizing international resources, including an initial USD15 million from its regional response plan, to support affected countries in managing the outbreak effectively.