In response to the increasing spread of the mpox virus in Africa, World Health Organization (WHO) Director-General Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus announced on Wednesday that an expert group will be convened to determine if the situation warrants being declared a global emergency. This decision comes as mpox cases continue to surge beyond the borders of Congo, prompting concerns about the need for a coordinated international response.

According to the Africa Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, mpox, also known as monkeypox, has been reported in 10 African countries this year. Congo alone accounts for over 96% of all cases and deaths. Disturbingly, compared to the same period last year, mpox cases have increased by a staggering 160%, with a 19% rise in fatalities. Children under the age of 15 constitute nearly 70% of cases in Congo and account for 85% of the deaths, highlighting the vulnerability of the younger population to this infectious disease.

Recently, mpox was newly detected in Burundi and Rwanda, indicating a further spread of the virus in the region. Other countries, including Kenya and the Central African Republic, have also identified cases. The growing number of affected countries underlines the urgent need for swift action to contain the virus and prevent its further escalation.

WHO's Director-General Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus emphasized the gravity of the situation and the agency's commitment to addressing the outbreak. In support of response efforts, WHO has already allocated $1 million from its emergency fund. This financial support will facilitate the deployment of necessary resources and interventions to tackle the mpox epidemic.

Earlier this year, a new, more dangerous strain of mpox emerged in a Congolese mining town, raising concerns that it could spread more easily among humans. Mpox spreads through close contact with infected individuals, including sexual transmission. In 2022, mpox was declared a global emergency by the WHO after it affected more than 70 countries, primarily impacting gay and bisexual men. Prior to that outbreak, the disease had been predominantly observed in sporadic epidemics in central and West Africa, usually linked to human contact with infected animals.

Maria Van Kerkhove, head of WHO's outbreak department, expressed several concerns regarding the current mpox epidemic in Africa, emphasizing the need for a more urgent response. Access to vaccines and treatments has been limited in the region, unlike in Western countries where the spread of the disease was effectively curtailed.

The establishment of the expert group by the WHO reflects an imperative to assess the situation comprehensively and determine the appropriate course of action. As affected countries grapple with the increasing burden of mpox cases, international collaboration and swift intervention are crucial to halt the spread of the virus and protect those at risk.