Friday, 22 November 2024

Note to the Media

Conclusion of Second meeting of the International Health Regulations (2005) (IHR) Emergency Committee on the mpox upsurge

The International Health Regulations (IHR 2005) Emergency Committee regarding the upsurge of mpox met today, 22 November 2024, for the second time.

The WHO Director-General, agreeing with the advice of the IHR Emergency Committee, has determined that the upsurge of mpox continues to constitute a public health emergency of international concern. The decision was based on the rising number and continuing geographic spread of cases, operational challenges in the field, and the need to mount and sustain a cohesive response across countries and partners.

A report of the meeting, including Temporary Recommendations issued by the Director-General to IHR States Parties, will be issued next week.

The upsurge of mpox in the Democratic Republic of the Congo and its spread to neighbouring countries was first declared a public health emergency of international concern by the Director-General on 14 August 2024.

Mpox IHR Emergency Committee 2024

Mpox outbreak

The list of members of the Emergency Committee and its previous statements are available here.

Useful links:

• Q&A on the International Health Regulations and Emergency Committees (click on top of the page for other languages)
• Mpox outbreak page on WHO website and mpox health topic page.
• WHO mpox epi dashboard here
• WHO headquarters photo library - Gallery - Mpox (for media)

Media contact:
mediainquiries@who.int

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