On 14 August 2024, the Director-General of the World Health Organization determined that the upsurge of mpox in a growing number of countries in Africa constitutes a new public health emergency of international concern (PHEIC) under the International Health Regulations (IHR) (2005).

Health authorities should strengthen public health surveillance, risk communication, community engagement and emergency coordination efforts as well as disease prevention and clinical care related to mpox at and around relevant points of entry (PoEs), in close coordination with all governmental and non-State actors working at and around PoEs. Persons with suspected or confirmed mpox and any individuals showing signs and symptoms compatible with mpox should refrain from non-essential travel and close contact with others.

This interim guidance provides advice to support the implementation of the standing and temporary recommendations related to border health, international travel and PoEs issued by the Director-General in line with the required capacities and provisions of the IHR (2005).

Report by the World Health Organization