Dr. Hans Kluge, WHO Regional Director for Europe, emphasized that mpox is not a “new COVID” and that the risk to the general population remains low. He urged countries to avoid overreacting and focus on implementing effective control measures.
“We know how to control mpox,” Dr. Kluge stated. “The steps needed to eliminate its transmission altogether are well-established.”
The WHO official highlighted the success of Europe’s response to the 2022 mpox outbreak, which was brought under control through a combination of behavioral changes, non-discriminatory public health actions, and vaccination. However, he warned that the region must remain vigilant and continue its efforts to eliminate the disease entirely.
Dr. Kluge also stressed the importance of global solidarity, particularly in supporting Africa, which is grappling with a significant mpox outbreak. He called for equitable access to vaccines and other resources to help countries in need.
The WHO is recommending the use of MVA-BN or LC16 vaccines, or the ACAM2000 vaccine when others are not available. These vaccines were originally developed for smallpox but are effective against mpox.
The WHO spokesperson, Tarik Jašarević, noted that the producer of MVA-BN, Bavarian Nordic, has the capacity to manufacture 10 million doses by the end of 2025. Additionally, Japan has been generous in donating LC16 vaccines to countries in need.
Dr. Kluge concluded by emphasizing the importance of global coordination and cooperation in defeating mpox. He urged countries to learn from the lessons of the COVID-19 pandemic and work together to eliminate this disease.
