WHO Clarifies Mpox Is Not the New COVID: Urges Global Action

The World Health Organization emphasizes that mpox, whether old or new strain, is controllable unlike COVID-19. WHO's Hans Kluge calls for global cooperation to manage and eliminate mpox, amid rising cases in Europe. Mpox, a viral infection, spreads through close contact but not via air, necessitating vigilant health monitoring.

The World Health Organization (WHO) stressed on Tuesday that mpox—regardless of its strain—is not comparable to COVID-19, as authorities possess the knowledge to control its spread.

Hans Kluge, WHO Regional Director for Europe, addressed a U.N. media briefing, urging collective action: 'We can and must tackle mpox together. Will we put systems in place to control and eliminate mpox globally, or enter another cycle of panic and neglect? How we respond now and in the years to come will be a critical test for Europe and the world,' he emphasized.

Mpox, a viral infection causing pus-filled lesions and flu-like symptoms, is generally mild but can be deadly. The clade 1b variant has raised global concern due to its ease of spread through close contact. Last week, a case of this variant was confirmed in Sweden, marking its spread outside Africa. In response, WHO declared the outbreak a public health emergency. Kluge noted that focusing on the more transmissible clade 1 strain would aid in combating the clade 2 variety that has been spreading globally since 2022.

Currently, around 100 new cases of the clade 2 mpox strain are reported monthly in the European region. Mpox transmits through close physical and sexual contact but does not spread through the air like previous pandemics such as COVID-19. Nevertheless, health authorities must stay alert for new, more transmissible clades or changes in transmission routes. No mask-wearing recommendation exists, according to WHO spokesperson Tarik Jasarevic.

(With inputs from agencies.)