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WHO launches global strategic plan to contain mpox outbreaks

The vaccination plan targets those most at risk, such as close contacts of cases and healthcare workers, to break transmission chains.

27 Aug 2024 09:06am
Passengers walk past the mpox awareness banner at Anna International Airport terminal in Chennai on August 21, 2024. (Photo by AFP)
Passengers walk past the mpox awareness banner at Anna International Airport terminal in Chennai on August 21, 2024. (Photo by AFP)
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GENEVA - The World Health Organisation (WHO) on Monday launched a global drive to tackle human-to-human transmission of mpox.

The Strategic Preparedness and Response Plan will run from September 2024 to February 2025, requiring US$135 million in funding.

By coordinating global, regional, and national efforts, it aims to enhance surveillance and response strategies, ensure equitable access to diagnostics and vaccines, reduce animal-to-human transmission, and empower communities in outbreak control, reported Xinhua.

The vaccination plan targets those most at risk, such as close contacts of cases and healthcare workers, to break transmission chains.

It will focus on providing strategic leadership and guidance, and ensuring access to medical treatment for vulnerable groups in affected regions.

"The mpox outbreaks in the Democratic Republic of the Congo and neighbouring countries can be controlled, and can be stopped," said WHO Director-General Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus.

According to a WHO statement, a funding appeal will be launched shortly. - BERNAMA-XINHUA

Democratic Republic of the Congo
WHO
World Health Organisation
mpox
healthcare
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