Mpox: WHO Provides Latest Epidemiology and Response Measures

Situation Report: November 2023

Key Findings

* 906 new laboratory-confirmed cases of mpox were reported globally in November 2023 from 26 countries. * The majority of cases (87%) were reported from the Americas, with Brazil, Colombia, and Peru accounting for the highest number of cases. * The WHO Director-General has called for a meeting to assess the current situation and consider whether to declare mpox a public health emergency of international concern.

The World Health Organization (WHO) has released its 31st situation report on the multi-country outbreak of mpox, providing details on the latest epidemiology and response measures.

Epidemiology

Since early May 2022, cases of mpox have been reported from countries where the disease is not endemic and continue to be reported.

• As of November 2023, a total of 85,840 laboratory-confirmed cases of mpox have been reported globally.
• The majority of cases (98%) have been reported from the Americas, with Brazil, Colombia, and Peru accounting for the highest number of cases.
• The median age of cases is 37 years, and the majority (95%) are male.

Clinical Presentation

Mpox is characterized by a rash that can appear on any part of the body.

• Other symptoms may include fever, chills, muscle aches, and swollen lymph nodes.
• In severe cases, mpox can lead to sepsis, encephalitis, and death.

Transmission

Mpox is transmitted through close contact with an infected person or their bodily fluids.

• Transmission can occur through skin-to-skin contact, sexual contact, or contact with contaminated objects.
• Mpox is not considered to be highly contagious, and the risk of transmission to the general public is low.

Treatment and Prevention

There is no specific treatment for mpox, but the symptoms can be managed with supportive care.

• Vaccination is the most effective way to prevent mpox, and two vaccines have been approved for use.
• Other preventive measures include avoiding contact with infected people, practicing good hygiene, and using condoms during sexual activity.

Public Health Response

The WHO is working with countries to monitor the outbreak and implement response measures.

• The WHO has published guidance on case management, infection prevention and control, and vaccination.
• The WHO is also supporting countries in strengthening their surveillance and laboratory capacity.

Conclusion

The WHO is closely monitoring the situation and will provide updates as needed. The public is advised to stay informed about mpox and take steps to protect themselves from infection.

For more information, please visit the WHO website: https://www.who.int/emergencies/diseases/monkeypox