Outbreak 2022 and subsequent developments
An atypical outbreak of mpox was declared in the WHO European Region in May 2022, following reports of a number of cases across several Member States not linked to countries where the disease is endemic. As the outbreak grew to include countries beyond the WHO European Region, it was declared a Public Health Emergency of International Concern (PHEIC) by WHO on July 23, 2022.
Over subsequent months, and into 2023, the outbreak subsided significantly through concerted action by governments and impacted communities – primarily men who have sex with men (MSM).
On May 10, 2023, noting progress made in tackling the outbreak, the IHR Emergency Committee on mpox recommended that the PHEIC status be lifted. The WHO Director-General accepted that recommendation, warning though that complacency was dangerous, urging governments, health authorities and impacted communities to remain vigilant.
All the cases detected so far in this outbreak have been identified as the milder West African clade.
As noted, patients initially presenting with mpox were mainly, but not exclusively, men who have sex with men (MSM), many of whom sought care in sexual health clinics. However, it is important to note that anyone who has close contact with someone who is infectious can catch mpox, regardless of their sexual orientation. It is wrong to stigmatize anyone.
However, even though anyone can catch mpox, not everyone is at equal risk. People who closely interact with someone who is infectious, including through sexual contact, are at greater risk for infection; particularly sexual partners, but also, potentially, household members and health workers.
WHO/Europe response
European Member States affected by mpox initiated public health investigations to better understand the situation, including launching studies into the disease epidemiology and virus characteristics. Countries have also been implementing control measures, such as case finding and contact tracing, as well as providing supportive care for patients. Importantly, they have been communicating risks about mpox and advice on how to avoid infection, engaging with community actors to ensure that those most likely to be affected take informed decisions to protect their health.
WHO will continue facilitating information-sharing to support investigations into the Region’s mpox outbreak. WHO has also developed guidance for authorities on how to protect frontline workers who may be at risk, as well as developed and shared technical recommendations on other aspects of the disease. This includes how to communicate risks, taking into account the perceptions and behaviours of diverse population groups.
These measures remain essential going forward, as the Region works towards mpox elimination, a goal that is both challenging and achievable.
