Mpox: WHO maintains maximum alert

The World Health Organization (WHO) has decided to maintain its maximum alert level in the face of the mpox epidemic, which is raging in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) and neighboring countries.

This decision is based on increasing cases, ongoing operational challenges and the need for a coordinated response to bring the crisis under control.

Since the start of the year, 19 African countries have reported cases of mpox, while in Canada one case has been confirmed, linked to travel to central and eastern Africa. In the DRC, the main focus of the epidemic, more than 40,000 cases and more than 1,000 deaths have been recorded. Despite these alarming figures, the country is making sustained efforts to limit the spread, particularly in the face of a new, more contagious strain detected in the east of the territory.

The WHO, having declared an international public health emergency in August, is continuing its efforts to mobilize funds, coordinate responses and accelerate vaccine development. To date, more than 50,000 people have been vaccinated, and a new campaign will begin next week in Kinshasa.