The World Health Organization’s Director-General, Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, spoke at a recent press briefing about emerging infectious disease threats and international responses. He noted that more than 1,000 monkeypox cases had already been confirmed across 29 non-endemic countries, with signs of community transmission appearing in several locations. The update underscored that while deaths have not yet been reported in these settings, the virus is spreading beyond traditionally affected groups to include women and other vulnerable populations.
Ghebreyesus emphasized the importance of rapid detection and thorough contact tracing to curb the outbreak. He urged countries to identify all cases and contacts promptly, strengthen surveillance, and ensure isolation measures are in place to prevent further transmission. The aim is to keep the outbreak contained while protecting high-risk groups and sustaining healthcare access for those who need it most.
Throughout the year, the organization documented additional monkeypox activity in Africa, with hundreds of suspected cases and dozens of deaths reported in the region. The Director-General pointed out that the international community has long watched the virus circulate, particularly in lower-resource settings, and that equitable access to diagnostics, treatments, and vaccines remains essential to preventing broader spread.
He stated that the WHO does not advocate for mass vaccination campaigns in every country but does support targeted vaccination for those at highest risk and ensures vaccines are available where they can make the most difference. This approach aligns with the need to build resilient health systems that can handle outbreaks without compromising routine care.
acute childhood hepatitis
On another front, Ghebreyesus reported about 700 cases of acute hepatitis in children across 34 countries, with 112 cases still under investigation. At a recent briefing, it was noted that at least 38 children affected by this severe hepatitis required liver transplants, and there were fatalities. Officials stressed that the five known hepatitis viruses had not been detected in the cases studied so far, and investigations continue to determine possible causes and risk factors.
The health leadership reaffirmed that comprehensive clinical assessment and supportive care remain critical for affected families. The WHO continues to coordinate with member states to share findings, support diagnostic capacity, and accelerate research to understand the condition and its implications for child health and immunization programs.
Covid-19 pandemic
Turning to the coronavirus situation, Tedros reminded audiences that reported case numbers and deaths have trended downward in many regions due to vaccination campaigns and improved public health practices. Yet a warning remains: a new, highly transmissible variant could emerge, and pockets of the population still lack protection. The message is clear—vigilance must continue, and vaccination coverage should keep pace with evolving risks.
The Director-General reiterated the critical need to sustain public awareness, maintain robust vaccination programs, and ensure fair global access to vaccines. Ensuring an adequate and steady vaccine supply worldwide is viewed as a cornerstone of ongoing pandemic preparedness and a key factor in reducing the impact of future waves.