The World Health Organization (WHO) declared a Public Health Emergency of International Concern (PHEIC) on 14 August 2024 due to the upsurge of mpox cases and the growing number of countries affected.

Mpox is a viral illness that often begins with a rash and flulike symptoms. It can spread from person to person as well as from animals to humans. Human-to-human transmission of mpox virus occurs by direct contact with lesions or infected body fluids (including sexual contact), or from exposure to respiratory secretions during prolonged face-to-face contact. A person is considered to be infectious until there is full healing of the rash with formation of a fresh layer of skin.

Committed to promoting health and wellbeing, Relief International teams are responding to the spread of mpox in the countries where we work. We are partnering with communities to ensure awareness of the risks associated with mpox, and how to prevent infection through training on hand washing, wearing PPE, and how to test for it. We are also stepping up our response at health facilities, screening and testing for cases and providing enhanced triage if necessary. Our team of local staff and volunteers will continue to monitor for potential cases and respond appropriately.

About Relief International

Relief International is an international non-profit organization that partners with communities impacted by conflict, climate change and disaster to save lives, build greater resilience and promote long-term health and wellbeing. Our team of more than 7,000 staff and local volunteers work in 15 countries across Africa, Asia, and the Middle East, providing Health and Nutrition, WASH (Water, Sanitation, and Hygiene), Education and Livelihoods programming that creates the foundation for community resilience. We do this by working with local actors to develop safe and inclusive local programming that is evidence based, conflict sensitive, climate smart, and reaches those in need.