Reflecting on One Year of the Mpox Health Emergency

August 16, 2025 - 14:54

A year ago, the World Health Organization and the Africa Centers for Disease Control and Prevention declared the highest health alert in response to the mpox outbreak. This declaration marked a significant moment in global health, highlighting the urgent need for coordinated action against emerging infectious diseases. Experts have since analyzed the response to the mpox crisis, concluding that it serves as a stark reminder of the world's inadequate preparedness for potential future pandemics.

The outbreak revealed critical gaps in public health infrastructure, surveillance systems, and rapid response capabilities. Many countries struggled to mobilize resources and implement effective containment strategies, raising concerns about the ability to respond to similar health emergencies in the future. The lessons learned from the mpox response emphasize the importance of investing in public health systems, enhancing international collaboration, and prioritizing research and development for vaccines and treatments. As the world reflects on this year, the focus must shift towards building resilience against future health threats.