WHO Acts to Combat Mpox Outbreak: Key Initiatives and Recommendations

The document from the World Health Organization (WHO) titled “Second meeting of the International Health Regulations (2005) Emergency Committee regarding the upsurge of mpox – 2024” provides an important update on the global response to the mpox outbreak. It outlines several key initiatives and recommendations designed to enhance access to innovative healthcare products for mpox. The focus on mpox is crucial given its rapid spread and impact on public health.

Declaration of Public Health Emergency of International Concern (PHEIC)

The WHO Director-General declared the mpox outbreak a Public Health Emergency of International Concern (PHEIC) due to its fast transmission, particularly in the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) and neighboring regions, along with the emergence of a new sexually transmissible strain of the monkeypox virus.

WHO Initiatives for Enhanced Access to Healthcare Products

Emergency Use Listing for Vaccines

The WHO Director-General initiated the Emergency Use Listing (EUL) process for mpox vaccines. This action is designed to expedite vaccine access for lower-income countries lacking national regulatory approval.

Vaccine Recommendations

WHO’s Strategic Advisory Group of Experts on Immunization (SAGE) recommends two vaccines currently used for mpox. WHO-listed national regulatory authorities and individual countries, including Nigeria and the DRC, have approved these vaccines.

International Coordination and Support

WHO is intensifying efforts through coordinated international action to assist countries in ending the outbreaks. This approach involves close collaboration with communities and governments, where country teams work on the frontlines to strengthen measures against mpox.

Temporary Recommendations

The Director-General, upon the IHR Emergency Committee’s advice, will issue temporary recommendations to countries. These recommendations aim to boost preparedness, surveillance, and response capabilities for the mpox outbreak.

Access to Diagnostic Tools and Treatments

WHO demonstrates its commitment to ensuring equitable access to essential healthcare products, including diagnostics and treatments, for the impacted countries through its emphasis on a coordinated international response, even though the document does not explicitly detail new initiatives for diagnostic tools and treatments.

Conclusion

The WHO’s response to the mpox outbreak includes initiatives aimed at enhancing access to innovative healthcare products, particularly vaccines. These initiatives focus on emergency use listings, international coordination, and tailored recommendations to support lower-income countries in obtaining these critical healthcare products. Access to innovative healthcare products for mpox is vital for effective management of this public health challenge.