WHO Official Clarifies: Mpox is Not the New COVID, Urges Global Action

A World Health Organization (WHO) official clarified on Tuesday that mpox, whether referring to the new or existing strain, should not be viewed as a new COVID-19, emphasizing that authorities have the means to control its spread.

“We have the ability and responsibility to tackle mpox collectively,” stated Hans Kluge, WHO’s Regional Director for Europe, during a press briefing.

Kluge posed a critical question: “Will we take the necessary steps to manage and eradicate mpox on a global scale? Or are we destined to repeat the cycle of panic followed by neglect? Our actions now and in the coming years will be a crucial test for Europe and the global community,” he asserted.

Mpox, a viral infection characterized by pus-filled lesions and flu-like symptoms, is generally mild but can be fatal in some cases. The clade 1b variant of mpox has raised global alarms due to its apparent ability to spread more easily through regular close contact. A case of this variant was recently confirmed in Sweden, linked to an escalating outbreak in Africa.

Kluge emphasized that the heightened attention on the clade 1 strain offers Europe an opportunity to also strengthen efforts against the less severe clade 2 strain. This includes improving public health guidance and enhancing surveillance measures.

Currently, approximately 100 new cases of the clade 2 mpox strain are being reported each month in the European region, Kluge added.