WHO Raises Alarm: DR Congo Mpox Epidemic Risks International Spread

Geneva, Switzerland - The World Health Organization (WHO) issued a stark warning on Friday, December 15th, 2023, expressing concern that the ongoing mpox (formerly monkeypox) epidemic in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) could spill over into the international community.

"We are concerned that there may be further international transmission" from the DRC, Dr. Rosamund Lewis, WHO's technical lead for mpox, declared during a press briefing in Geneva. "There's a rapidly expanding outbreak in the country," with over 13,000 suspected cases reported so far this year, she added, "which is more than twice the number of previous reported in any prior year."

This surge in cases, coupled with the disease's established sexual transmission routes, has heightened the WHO's anxiety. "Sexual transmission is accelerating," Dr. Lewis emphasized, highlighting the potential for the virus to spread beyond the DRC's borders.

The DRC has battled mpox for decades, with the virus endemic in several West and Central African nations. However, the current outbreak's scale and rapid growth are unprecedented, prompting the WHO to dispatch an evaluation team to the country.

"The purpose of this team is to assess the situation, understand the dynamics of transmission, and identify any potential gaps in the response," Dr. Lewis explained. The team will work closely with DRC health authorities to strengthen surveillance, contact tracing, and access to treatment.

Cambodia reported its first mpox case last week, further fueling concerns about international spread. Additionally, the WHO acknowledged reports of a suspected outbreak on a cruise ship sailing in Southeast Asia, although it lacked concrete information.

The international community remains on high alert, particularly after mpox cases surged outside of endemic areas in Europe and the United States last year. While the WHO lifted its public health emergency of international concern in May 2023, it continues to urge vigilance.

"We need to remain vigilant," Dr. Lewis concluded. "We need to continue to strengthen surveillance, raise awareness, and ensure that people have access to the tools they need to protect themselves and their communities."