Date of Meeting: November 22, 2024
Organized by: World Health Organization (WHO)
Purpose of the Meeting
The second meeting of the International Health Regulations (IHR, 2005) Emergency Committee concerning the 2024 mpox upsurge was held on November 22, 2024. This meeting was convened in response to the continued spread of mpox, especially involving the Clade Ib strain, which has been affecting new geographic areas. The Committee noted persistent challenges, including increasing case numbers, operational difficulties in affected regions, and the need for enhanced international collaboration.
The World Health Organization (WHO) Director-General determined that mpox still constitutes a Public Health Emergency of International Concern (PHEIC). Revised temporary recommendations were issued, focusing on bolstering surveillance, vaccination efforts, equitable access to diagnostic tools, and sustained global response coordination.
The outbreak continues to highlight vulnerabilities in public health systems, especially in resource-constrained regions. WHO and its partners are actively working with affected countries to contain the virus and mitigate its impact.
Key Highlights
Epidemiological Update
- Continued rise in mpox cases in various regions, with the Clade Ib strain contributing significantly to the outbreaks.
- Geographic expansion of the virus to new territories, some of which were previously unaffected.
- High-risk populations, including those in under-resourced areas, remain most vulnerable.
Challenges Identified
- Operational Hurdles:
- Limited access to vaccines, treatments, and diagnostic tools in affected areas.
- Challenges in resource mobilization and equitable distribution.
- Global Coordination:
- Need for stronger intergovernmental collaboration to ensure synchronized efforts.
- Gaps in surveillance and reporting mechanisms across nations.
Public Health Emergency Status
The Committee reaffirmed that the mpox outbreak still qualifies as a Public Health Emergency of International Concern (PHEIC), emphasizing its international ramifications and the ongoing need for a cohesive global response.
Recommendations
- Strengthening Surveillance:
- Enhanced reporting systems for better tracking of new cases.
- Deployment of innovative diagnostic tools for faster identification.
- Vaccination:
- Acceleration of vaccine production and equitable allocation to high-risk regions.
- Prioritization of vaccination campaigns targeting vulnerable groups.
- Resource Allocation:
- Improved funding mechanisms for outbreak response.
- Development of partnerships to support affected countries.
- Community Engagement:
- Awareness campaigns to educate the public on preventive measures.
- Addressing stigma and ensuring accessibility to healthcare for all.
Conclusion
The Committee commended progress made since the first meeting but acknowledged that significant work remains. WHO called for sustained international collaboration and renewed commitment to controlling the outbreak. Revised temporary recommendations were issued to Member States to address current challenges effectively.
