WHO Issues Updated Guidelines Amid Rising Mpox Cases

The World Health Organization (WHO) reaffirmed Mpox’s Public Health Emergency of International Concern (PHEIC) status due to rising global cases and the spread of Clade Ib MPXV. Revised temporary recommendations target affected countries, urging stronger responses alongside existing guidelines extended through August 2025. These measures aim to limit transmission, address healthcare system gaps, and enhance global coordination in combating mpox.

Despite ongoing efforts at the national and international levels, the Committee meeting held on Nov. 22, 2024 observed an uptick in Mpox cases, with geographic spread continuing. These developments have led the Committee to reaffirm that the situation still meets the criteria for PHEIC. Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, Director General, WHO, has concurred with this assessment, issuing revised temporary recommendations for affected states.

The recommendations, which include improving surveillance to track Clade Ib MPXV cases, strengthening laboratory capacity, advancing vaccinations for high-risk groups, and promoting public awareness on prevention and symptoms, target States Parties with sustained transmission, clusters, or travel-related Mpox cases. They complement the standing guidelines extended through August 2025. Additionally, the Committee has emphasized the need for a more cohesive and sustained international response, urging stronger national commitment to combat the outbreak. While progress has been made in certain regions, the Committee stressed that ongoing efforts are necessary to prevent further spread and to address operational challenges faced by healthcare systems.