World Health Organization Lifts Global Emergency for Monkeypox After Decline in Cases

The World Health Organization announced on Friday that monkeypox is no longer a global health emergency, following a continuous decline in the number of cases and deaths, particularly in the Democratic Republic of the Congo and other affected countries.

The organization had declared a public health emergency of international concern in August 2024, following a significant outbreak of the disease in the Democratic Republic of the Congo, before deciding to lift it after the quarterly meeting of the emergency committee, which was held on Thursday to review the global situation.

In a press conference, the organization's Director-General Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus explained that the decision was based on the recommendation of the emergency committee, noting that experts now better understand the transmission routes of the disease also known as Mpox and the associated risk factors, and that the majority of affected countries have developed sustainable response capabilities.

Tedros noted that more than 3 million vaccine doses have been delivered to 12 countries, and about one million doses have been administered so far, but he warned that lifting the emergency does not mean the danger has disappeared, emphasizing the continuation of monitoring and response efforts.

It is worth mentioning that the symptoms of monkeypox include fever and the appearance of a rash in the form of blisters, and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention in Africa still considers the disease a continental health emergency despite the global decision.