WHO says Europe can defeat monkey pox, must help Africa obtain vaccines

On Tuesday, a senior WHO official urged European governments to show strong political commitment to eliminating Mpox while supporting Africa.

Dr. Hans Kluge, WHO Regional Director for Europe, emphasized that Mpox is not comparable to COVID-19 and the risk to the general population is low. He stressed that Europe knows how to control Mpox and eliminate its transmission but failed to fully eradicate it, with around 100 new cases of Mpox clade II reported monthly.

Kluge noted that the current alert for Mpox clade I, which is more severe, provides an opportunity for Europe to also focus on eliminating clade II. He called for European solidarity with Africa, especially in ensuring equitable vaccine access.

The WHO recommends several vaccines developed against smallpox, with MVA-BN and LC16 being notable options. Kluge acknowledged ongoing vaccine donations from the EU and the importance of global coordination to tackle Mpox effectively.

He warned that how Europe and the world respond now will be a critical test for future global health efforts.