Global Alert: Mpox Spreading and How to Combat It

The World Health Organization has issued a warning about a new strain of the mpox virus, which has spread from the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) to other countries, including Thailand and Sweden. This resurgence comes just over a year after the previous mpox crisis was declared over, with 615 deaths reported in the DRC this year alone. The slow response from countries with available vaccines has exacerbated the situation, as 90% of Africa's cases are recorded in the DRC. Despite the availability of effective vaccines in the West, they have not been distributed to the countries most affected. Japan has pledged to donate 3 million doses of its LC16m8 vaccine, while Spain will contribute 500,000 doses. However, these donations are insufficient for a country with nearly 100 million people. The pandemic has highlighted the necessity for global coordination in vaccine distribution to ensure that no one is safe until all are safe. The establishment of global mechanisms, such as Gavi's $500 million First Response Fund, aims to provide low-income countries with immediate resources for vaccine responses. To effectively combat future health emergencies, it is crucial to develop local vaccine manufacturing capabilities in Africa and for Western manufacturers to share technology with African counterparts. The WHO's funding needs are significant, with a gap of $7.1 billion identified to support healthcare expansion in low- and middle-income countries. The current contribution of 30 cents per person per year is inadequate, leading to preventable deaths and highlighting the urgent need for increased financial support for global health initiatives.