World Health Organization Declares Global End to the Mpox Emergency

The WHO Declaration

On June 12, 2026, the World Health Organization's Director-General, Dr. Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, announced that the multi-country outbreak of Mpox (formerly monkeypox) no longer constitutes a Public Health Emergency of International Concern (PHEIC). The decision followed the recommendation of the International Health Regulations (IHR) Emergency Committee.

Background & Global Response

Mpox was declared a global health emergency in July 2022 when cases surged unexpectedly in non-endemic countries across Europe and the Americas. The virus, characterized by a painful rash and flu-like symptoms, spread primarily through close physical contact. The lifting of the emergency status is attributed to robust international cooperation, targeted behavioral interventions, and the successful deployment of the JYNNEOS vaccine in high-risk communities.

Key Statistics

• Total Global Cases (2022-2026): Approx 95,000 reported cases across 115 countries.
• Recent Trend: Cases dropped by 90% in the last quarter leading up to the declaration.
• Primary Vaccine Used: JYNNEOS (Modified Vaccinia Ankara vaccine).

Static GK & Related Facts

• WHO PHEIC: A formal declaration by the WHO of an extraordinary event which constitutes a public health risk to other states through the international spread of disease.
• Mpox Origin: A zoonotic orthopoxvirus, first discovered in monkeys in a Danish laboratory in 1958. The first human case was recorded in the Democratic Republic of the Congo in 1970.
• WHO Headquarters: Geneva, Switzerland. Founded on April 7, 1948 (celebrated as World Health Day).