The World Health Organization announced Monday that it has placed a newly identified variant of the mpox virus under enhanced surveillance following reports of cases in 11 countries across Africa, Europe, and Asia over the past six weeks.
The variant, designated Clade Ib-2, appears to spread more readily through close contact than previous strains, though WHO officials stressed that it does not currently meet the threshold for a Public Health Emergency of International Concern.
“We are monitoring this situation closely and working with national health authorities to ensure rapid detection and response,” said WHO Director-General Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus. “The existing vaccines and treatments remain effective against this variant.”
Health authorities in affected countries have been advised to strengthen surveillance, accelerate vaccination campaigns in high-risk populations, and ensure hospitals are equipped to manage potential case increases.
The general public is advised to follow standard hygiene practices, avoid close contact with individuals showing symptoms, and consult a healthcare provider if they develop a rash or other symptoms consistent with mpox.
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