April 1, 2026 6:14:12 PM
WHO Director-General Dr. Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus announced on September 5, 2025, that the mpox outbreak is no longer a global public health emergency of international concern (PHEIC). The decision followed a sustained decline in cases and deaths, particularly in the Democratic Republic of Congo and neighboring African nations.
Key Details on the Decision:
- Declining Cases: The decision was made based on consistent decreases in infections and deaths over the previous three months.
- Continued Vigilance: Tedros warned that while the global emergency is lifted, the virus still poses a threat and can cause new outbreaks.
- Continental Concern: While the global PHEIC was lifted, the African Union’s CDC previously emphasized that the outbreak remained a public health emergency of continental security.
- Context: The WHO first declared the mpox outbreak a global emergency in August 2024, targeting a, then, new, more virulent strain.
The WHO will continue to monitor the situation, urging countries to maintain testing and surveillance to prevent resurgence.
Source: Dawn , Barron's , Gulf News, TheStar.com
