Official announcements from health ministries or the WHO

WHO Maintains Mpox Emergency, Approves 2nd Vaccine for Children

Nov 22, 2024, 07:13 PM

The World Health Organization (WHO) has decided to maintain the mpox outbreak as a public health emergency of international concern (PHEIC) due to the rising number of cases and the continuing geographic spread. This decision was made following the recommendation of the Emergency Committee, which met for the second time in 2024 to assess the ongoing situation. The WHO has also approved the emergency use of a second mpox vaccine, the LC16m8, for children, following the approval of another vaccine earlier. The mpox epidemic has seen a notable reduction in infections in the Democratic Republic of Congo since vaccines were rolled out, but the WHO cautions against over-optimism. Burundi has reported 2,003 confirmed cases, making it the second most affected country in Africa. The WHO's decision to keep the highest level of alert reflects the global concern over the spread and impact of mpox, with 46,000 suspected cases and 1,100 deaths reported in Africa this year.