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61st Global Mpox Situation Report – Epidemiological Update to 30 nov 2025

1. Global Case Summary (as of 30 Nov 2025)

*Confirmed cases include laboratory‑verified mpox infections reported to the WHO.

Key observations

• Endemic resurgence in West Africa – nigeria, the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), and Cameroon reported the highest weekly increases, driven by limited access to diagnostic kits and seasonal agricultural migration.
• Sustained decline in Europe and the Americas – Intensive contact‑tracing, targeted vaccination, and community‑led outreach have reduced transmission chains to isolated clusters.
• Shift in age distribution – Median age of cases moved from 34 years (2022) to 28 years in 2025, reflecting higher exposure among younger, mobile populations in endemic zones.

2. Transmission Dynamics

2.1 Primary Modes of spread (2025)

1. Close physical contact – Continued dominance of skin‑to‑skin transmission during household gatherings and communal events.
2. Sexual networks – Particularly among MSM (men who have sex with men) communities in urban centers of the Americas and Europe; accounted for ~38% of recent outbreaks.
3. Zoonotic spill‑over – Increasing reports of rodent‑to‑human transmission in forested regions of the DRC and Nigeria, linked to bushmeat handling.

2.2 Seasonal patterns

• Rainy season (May-Oct) in Central Africa correlates with a 15‑20% rise in zoonotic cases, aligning with rodent population peaks.
• Holiday travel spikes observed in December‑January in the Americas, prompting temporary surges that were quickly contained through rapid‑response teams.

3.Diagnostic Landscape

rapid antigen tests have been instrumental in community‑based screening during outbreak spikes in Nigeria and Rwanda.*

4. Vaccination & Therapeutics

4.1 vaccine Deployment (as of 17 Dec 2025)

• Jynneos® (MVA‑BN) – 6.4 million doses administered globally; priority groups include frontline health workers, MSM networks, and high‑risk rural communities in West Africa.
• Acute‑phase ring‑vaccination – Implemented in 28 outbreak zones, achieving a median 75% coverage of contacts within 7 days of case confirmation.

4.2 Therapeutic Use

• Tecovirimat (TPOXX®) – Authorized for compassionate use in 12 countries; ongoing pharmacovigilance reports a 94% clinical recovery rate among severe cases.
• Brincidofovir – limited stockpiles retained for outbreak clusters with high mortality risk (e.g., immunocompromised patients).

5. Operational Response (Status 17 Dec 2025)

5.1 WHO Coordination Mechanism

• Global Mpox incident Management Team (IMT) – 9‑member core team overseeing real‑time data sharing via the WHO Health Alert Platform.
• Regional Technical Advisory Groups (RTAGs) – Provide tailored guidance on culturally appropriate risk communication and infection‑control protocols.

5.2 National & Sub‑regional Actions

1. Nigeria – Launched “Mpox Shield 2025” program:
• 250 k community health volunteers trained in case identification.
• mobile labs equipped with GeneXpert units in 12 high‑risk LGAs.

2. United states (CDC) – Expanded the “Mpox Rapid Response Network” to 15 additional state health departments, integrating electronic case reporting with the National Notifiable Diseases Surveillance System (NNDSS).

3. European Center for Disease Prevention and Control (ECDC) – Implemented a cross‑border digital contact‑tracing framework linking Germany,France,and the Netherlands,reducing median outbreak duration from 21 days (2022) to 9 days (2025).

5.3 community‑Led Interventions

• Peer‑education hubs in urban MSM venues (Barcelona, New York, São Paulo) delivering condom distribution, symptom awareness, and rapid‑test access.
• Women’s health groups in rural DRC facilitating safe burial practices and rodent‑control campaigns, decreasing zoonotic transmission by an estimated 30% in pilot districts.

6.Risk Assessment & Forecast (Q1 2026)

projected case trajectory: Assuming current mitigation measures remain, WHO models estimate a further 5‑7% decline in global incidence by June 2026, with endemic hotspots stabilizing at ≤300 cases/month.

7. Practical Guidance for Public Health Practitioners

1. Enhance early detection
• Deploy rapid antigen kits at primary health centers in high‑risk districts.
• Integrate mpox symptom prompts into existing COVID‑19 and influenza surveillance forms.

2. Strengthen contact‑tracing workflows
• Use encrypted mobile applications for secure data capture; limit manual logs to high‑confidentiality settings.

3. Optimize vaccine allocation
• Prioritize ring‑vaccination around laboratory‑confirmed cases and their close contacts.
• Reserve a proportion of doses for “catch‑up” campaigns in underserved rural areas.

4. promote community engagement
• Co‑design risk‑communication materials with local influencers.
• Conduct regular de‑briefs with community health volunteers to adapt strategies in real time.

8. Data Sources & References

• World health Association, Global Mpox Situation Report – 61st Edition (30 Nov 2025).
• Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, “Mpox 2025 Surveillance Summary,” published 12 Dec 2025.
• European Centre for Disease Prevention and Control, “Mpox Cross‑Border response 2025.”
• Nigeria Centre for Disease Control, “Mpox Shield 2025 Operational review,” October 2025.
• Peer‑reviewed articles:

- Hughes et al., “Mpox transmission dynamics in endemic versus non‑endemic settings,” Lancet Infectious Diseases (2025).

- Patel et al., “Effectiveness of ring vaccination during the 2024-2025 mpox resurgence,” Vaccine (2025).

All figures reflect the latest verified data available to 30 Nov 2025 and are subject to ongoing verification by national health authorities.

Mpox Evolution: Forecasting the Next Phase of Global Outbreak Response

By late 2025, the mpox outbreak, initially declared a global health emergency, has entered a complex new phase. While the immediate crisis has subsided in many regions, the virus hasn’t disappeared – it’s evolving. The latest situation report reveals a shifting epidemiological landscape, particularly in Africa, demanding a proactive, adaptable strategy. But what does this mean for the future of mpox, and how can we prepare for potential resurgences and new challenges? This article dives into the emerging trends, potential implications, and crucial steps needed to navigate the ongoing mpox situation.

The Shifting Global Landscape: Data from 2025

The 59th situation report highlights a crucial point: mpox is no longer a uniformly distributed threat. Data as of September 30, 2025, shows a stabilization of cases in many Western nations, largely attributed to vaccination campaigns and behavioral changes within high-risk populations. However, the situation in Africa, with data updated to October 19, 2025, paints a different picture. Increased incidence in several African countries suggests a potential for sustained transmission, possibly linked to factors like limited access to vaccines, differing viral strains, and unique ecological conditions. This divergence underscores the need for a regionally tailored response.

Mpox, formerly known as monkeypox, continues to demonstrate its capacity for adaptation. The operational response updates (October 24, 2025) indicate ongoing challenges in vaccine distribution, particularly in resource-limited settings. Furthermore, the emergence of new variants, while not yet classified as variants of concern, requires continuous genomic surveillance to monitor for changes in transmissibility or disease severity.

Africa: The New Epicenter?

The rising case numbers in Africa are particularly concerning. Several factors contribute to this trend. Limited access to the JYNNEOS vaccine, the primary preventative measure, is a significant hurdle. Furthermore, the virus may be circulating in animal reservoirs, leading to zoonotic spillover events. Understanding the specific animal hosts and transmission dynamics in these regions is critical.

The situation also highlights the ethical considerations surrounding vaccine equity. While wealthier nations have largely secured sufficient vaccine supplies, many African countries are still struggling to meet the needs of their populations. Addressing this disparity is not only a matter of global health security but also of social justice.

Future Trends: What to Expect in the Coming Years

Looking ahead, several key trends are likely to shape the future of mpox:

Increased Endemicity

Mpox is unlikely to disappear entirely. Instead, it’s likely to become endemic in certain regions, particularly in Africa and potentially in specific high-risk populations globally. This means ongoing surveillance, vaccination efforts, and public health education will be essential.

Variant Evolution

Viruses constantly evolve. Continued genomic surveillance is crucial to identify and characterize new mpox variants. While most mutations may not significantly alter the virus’s behavior, the potential for variants with increased transmissibility, virulence, or vaccine resistance remains a concern.

The Role of Animal Reservoirs

Unraveling the complex relationship between mpox and its animal reservoirs is paramount. Identifying the specific species involved and understanding the transmission dynamics will be critical for preventing future spillover events. This requires collaborative research involving virologists, ecologists, and public health officials.

Digital Epidemiology & Real-Time Surveillance

Leveraging digital tools, such as mobile apps and social media data, can enhance real-time surveillance and early warning systems. This allows for rapid detection of outbreaks and targeted interventions. However, it’s crucial to address privacy concerns and ensure data security.

Implications for Public Health & Individual Action

The evolving mpox landscape has significant implications for both public health authorities and individuals.

For Public Health: A shift from emergency response to sustained surveillance and endemic disease management is needed. This includes strengthening laboratory capacity, improving vaccine distribution, and investing in research to understand the virus’s ecology and evolution. International collaboration is also essential to ensure equitable access to vaccines and resources.

For Individuals: Staying informed about mpox, practicing safe behaviors, and getting vaccinated (if eligible) are crucial steps. Individuals should also be aware of the symptoms and seek medical attention if they suspect they may be infected. Reducing stigma surrounding the disease is also vital to encourage early diagnosis and treatment.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the current status of mpox vaccine availability?

While vaccine supplies have improved in many regions, access remains uneven, particularly in Africa. Ongoing efforts are focused on increasing production and ensuring equitable distribution.

How effective are current mpox vaccines?

The JYNNEOS vaccine is highly effective in preventing mpox, but it’s not 100% protective. Vaccination reduces the risk of infection and severe illness.

What should I do if I think I have mpox?

If you develop symptoms consistent with mpox, such as a rash, fever, or swollen lymph nodes, you should seek medical attention immediately. Isolate yourself from others to prevent potential spread.

Is mpox a sexually transmitted infection (STI)?

While mpox can be transmitted through sexual contact, it is not exclusively an STI. It can also spread through close physical contact, respiratory droplets, and contaminated surfaces.

The future of mpox is uncertain, but one thing is clear: vigilance, adaptability, and collaboration are essential to mitigate the ongoing threat. By understanding the evolving dynamics of this virus, we can better protect ourselves and our communities. What proactive steps do you think are most crucial for long-term mpox management? Share your thoughts in the comments below!

What programmatic adjustments are needed to address the cholera outbreaks in conflict zones, considering the challenges of access and security?

Cholera Outbreak Across Multiple Countries: A Comprehensive Analysis of External Situation Report #30, September 26, 2025

Global Cholera Resurgence: Current status

As of September 26, 2025, the world continues to grapple with a significant resurgence of cholera, a preventable and treatable diarrheal infection.External Situation Report #30 from global health organizations highlights a concerning trend: an estimated 1 billion people are currently at risk worldwide. This isn’t a localized issue; outbreaks are actively reported in 33 countries, demonstrating the widespread nature of this public health emergency.

The data reveals a ample impact: over 511,000 cases and 4,100 deaths have been recorded globally since the beginning of 2024. This underscores the urgent need for intensified cholera prevention, rapid response, and improved access to treatment. Understanding the factors driving this resurgence is crucial for effective intervention.

Geographic Distribution of Cholera Outbreaks – 2025

The current cholera epidemic isn’t uniform in its spread. Several regions are experiencing especially severe outbreaks. Key areas of concern include:

* Africa: Several countries in Eastern and Southern Africa are facing large-scale outbreaks, exacerbated by climate change-related flooding and conflict.

* Asia: Countries in South Asia and Southeast Asia are reporting increased cases, often linked to inadequate water and sanitation infrastructure.

* Haiti: A particularly devastating outbreak continues in haiti,compounded by political instability and socioeconomic challenges.

* Middle East: Yemen remains highly vulnerable due to ongoing conflict and a weakened healthcare system.

these hotspots require targeted interventions, including cholera vaccination campaigns, improved water sanitation, and access to oral rehydration solutions (ORS).

Key Drivers of the Current Cholera Wave

Multiple factors are contributing to the global increase in cholera cases. These include:

* Climate Change: Extreme weather events, such as floods and droughts, contaminate water sources and disrupt sanitation systems.

* Conflict and Displacement: Humanitarian crises create conditions ripe for cholera transmission, with overcrowded settlements and limited access to clean water.

* weak Healthcare Systems: In many affected countries, healthcare infrastructure is fragile, hindering early detection, treatment, and outbreak control.

* Antimicrobial Resistance: Increasing resistance to antibiotics used to treat severe cholera cases complicates treatment and increases mortality rates.

* Limited Access to Safe Water & Sanitation: A fundamental driver, lack of access to clean water and proper sanitation facilities remains a core issue.

Cholera Symptoms and Diagnosis

Recognizing cholera symptoms early is vital for prompt treatment. Common signs include:

1. Profuse Watery diarrhea: Frequently enough described as “rice-water stool.”
2. Vomiting: frequent and forceful vomiting.
3. Rapid Dehydration: Leading to symptoms like sunken eyes, dry mouth, and decreased urination.
4. Muscle Cramps: Due to electrolyte imbalance.

Diagnosis typically involves a stool sample analysis to identify the Vibrio cholerae bacteria. Rapid diagnostic tests (RDTs) are increasingly being used for quicker results in outbreak settings. Early and accurate cholera diagnosis is critical for effective management.

Treatment and Prevention Strategies

Effective cholera treatment focuses on rehydration.

* Oral Rehydration Solution (ORS): The cornerstone of treatment, replacing lost fluids and electrolytes.

* Intravenous Fluids: Necessary for severely dehydrated patients.

* Antibiotics: can reduce the duration of diarrhea and the amount of bacteria shed, but are not a substitute for rehydration.

Cholera prevention relies on a multi-pronged approach:

* Improved Water Sanitation: Ensuring access to clean water sources.

* Proper Sanitation: Implementing effective waste management systems.

* Cholera Vaccination: Oral cholera vaccines (OCV) are highly effective in preventing infection. Mass vaccination campaigns are crucial in high-risk areas.

* Hygiene Education: Promoting handwashing with soap and safe food handling practices.

* Surveillance and Early Warning Systems: Detecting outbreaks early and implementing rapid response measures.

The Role of Oral Cholera Vaccines (OCV)

oral cholera vaccines (OCV) are a critical tool in preventing outbreaks.They are safe, effective, and relatively inexpensive. However, global supply limitations and logistical challenges can hinder widespread vaccination efforts. The WHO recommends OCV for use in endemic areas and during outbreaks. Strategic cholera vaccine deployment, targeting high-risk populations, is essential.

Real-World Example: Cholera Response in Yemen

Yemen’s ongoing conflict has created a humanitarian catastrophe, with cholera outbreaks becoming a recurring crisis. The breakdown of infrastructure, displacement of populations, and limited access to healthcare have fueled the spread of the disease. International organizations are working to provide clean water, sanitation facilities, and medical supplies, but the scale of the crisis requires sustained and coordinated efforts. This situation highlights the devastating impact of conflict on public health and the importance of addressing the root causes of vulnerability.

Benefits of Proactive Cholera Preparedness

Investing in cholera preparedness yields