Full Breakdown
WHO Declares End to Mpox International Health Emergency in Africa
9/6/2025, 4:34:39 AM
Overview of the Situation
The World Health Organization (WHO) has officially lifted the designation of mpox as a Public Health Emergency of International Concern (PHEIC) in Africa, following a significant decline in cases and deaths. This decision was announced by WHO Director-General Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, who stated that the emergency panel advised that the situation no longer represents an international emergency. The new form of mpox, which emerged in early 2024, primarily affected the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC), Burundi, Sierra Leone, and Uganda.
Decline in Cases and Improved Response
The WHO's decision to end the emergency status is attributed to sustained declines in mpox cases and fatalities in the DRC and other affected countries. As of July 31, 2025, over 34,000 confirmed cases had been reported globally, with 138 deaths, and more than 15,000 cases occurring in the DRC alone. Enhanced public health measures, including increased testing and improved diagnostic capabilities, have played a crucial role in curbing the spread of the virus. Dr. Dimie Ogoina, chair of the WHO emergency committee, noted that many countries have improved their ability to diagnose and manage mpox cases.
Continued Vigilance Required
Despite the lifting of the emergency declaration, both Tedros and Ogoina emphasized that the threat is not entirely over. Tedros stated, “Lifting the emergency declaration does not mean the threat is over, nor that our response will stop.” The Africa Centres for Disease Control and Prevention (Africa CDC) has extended its own public health emergency status, citing ongoing concerns, particularly in countries like Ghana, Liberia, Kenya, Zambia, and Tanzania, where new surges have been reported. The Africa CDC highlighted that while weekly confirmed cases have declined by 52%, fresh introductions of the virus continue to pose risks.
Criticism and Concerns
Critics have raised concerns regarding the decision to lift the international emergency status. The Africa CDC warned that the current downward trends are not stable enough to justify such a move, emphasizing the need for sustained investments in health systems and continued political commitment to combatting mpox. Ogoina cautioned against complacency, stating, “This is not a time for us to reduce the investments in terms of financial investment, partnership, solidarity, especially for most affected countries in the African continent.”
Verbatim Quotes
- “Lifting the emergency declaration does not mean the threat is over, nor that our response will stop.” — Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, WHO Director-General
- “While we are removing the emergency, we need to keep the urgency,” — Dimie Ogoina, Chair of the WHO Emergency Committee
Conclusion
The WHO's decision to end the mpox international health emergency reflects significant progress in managing the outbreak in Africa. However, health officials stress the importance of ongoing vigilance and resource allocation to prevent resurgence, particularly among vulnerable populations such as children and individuals living with HIV. The situation remains a public health concern, necessitating continued efforts to monitor and respond to potential flare-ups of the virus.
