27-02-2025
WHO Declares Ongoing Mpox Outbreak a Public Health Emergency, Issues Revised Recommendations
The Director-General of the World Health Organization (WHO) has reaffirmed that the ongoing mpox outbreak continues to constitute a Public Health Emergency of International Concern (PHEIC). This decision follows the third meeting of the International Health Regulations (2005) (IHR) Emergency Committee, held on February 25, 2025. The Committee convened from 12:00 to 17:00 CET to assess the latest developments surrounding the upsurge of mpox cases globally.
In alignment with the Committee's advice, the WHO Director-General has issued a revised set of temporary recommendations aimed at curbing the spread of the monkeypox virus (MPXV). He extended his sincere gratitude to the Chair, Members, and Advisors of the Committee for their contributions. The full proceedings of the meeting will be shared with IHR State Parties and made publicly available in the coming days.
Revised Temporary Recommendations
The updated temporary recommendations apply to countries experiencing MPXV transmission, including those with sustained community transmission, cluster outbreaks, or sporadic travel-related cases of MPXV clade Ib. These measures complement the existing WHO standing recommendations for mpox, which have been extended until August 20, 2025.
WHO has emphasized that these recommendations align with the Strategic Framework for Enhancing Prevention and Control of Mpox (2024-2027), which outlines global efforts to combat the disease. The organization has pledged to continue updating its evidence-based guidance to reflect new scientific findings and evolving risk assessments.
All relevant WHO interim technical guidance remains accessible on the WHO website. Countries are urged to implement these measures while upholding human rights principles, including dignity, fundamental freedoms, and respect for privacy, as outlined in Article 3 of the IHR.
The WHO will continue to monitor the global mpox situation and provide updated guidance as necessary to support affected nations in controlling the outbreak effectively.
