WOAH statement on novel mpox

Novel strain of mpox

The World Organisation for Animal Health (WOAH) has been closely monitoring the rapid spread of the novel mpox strain amongst humans due to the zoonotic nature of the virus.

A recent upsurge in the novel strain of mpox (clade 1b) in humans from a growing number of countries in Africa, along with sporadic cases in Asia and Europe, has led to its classification as a public health emergency of international concern by the World Health Organization (WHO).

WOAH is responding to this challenge by actively encouraging its Members to report confirmed cases of mpox in animals, as well as to take appropriate risk mitigation measures. To reduce the risk of human to animal transmission, WOAH has developed guidance for various risk groups. To raise awareness on the topic, WOAH has also developed a set of online resources including prevention and diagnosis strategies for animals. In addition, WOAH is constantly consulting its Reference Centres and expert groups on mpox and emerging diseases, while collaborating with its partners like WHO to take a One Health approach.

For more information and broader coverage, as well as what our Members and the public can do, read our full statement on novel mpox.