Geneva, Switzerland (Enmaeya News) — The World Health Organization (WHO) said June 9, 2025, that mpox remains a serious global health threat and continues to be classified as a Public Health Emergency of International Concern (PHEIC).

Mpox, formerly known as monkeypox, is a viral disease similar to smallpox but generally less severe. It spreads through close contact with infected people, animals, or contaminated materials. Symptoms include fever, rash, and swollen lymph nodes. The WHO updated the name to "mpox" to reduce stigma and confusion.

The designation, first made in August 2024, followed the emergence of a new virus variant in the Democratic Republic of Congo that quickly spread to neighboring countries.

WHO Director-General Dr. Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus stressed the critical need for continued international cooperation and vigilance in controlling the outbreak.

To support this effort, the WHO issued updated temporary recommendations focused on improving surveillance, laboratory testing, community engagement, clinical management, and targeted vaccination.

These measures aim to help countries contain the virus and prevent further spread.

Despite progress in some regions, WHO said the outbreak is far from over and called for continued global commitment to fight the virus effectively.