WHO Declares New Mpox Strain a Global Health Emergency
The World Health Organization has declared a new, more transmissible strain of Mpox a global health emergency of international concern, urging accelerated vaccine production.
Cross-verified and synthesized across 2 independent reporting sources:
WHO headquarters and medical research symbolism
The World Health Organization on Monday declared a new strain of Mpox, designated Clade Ic, a public health emergency of international concern — the highest level of global health alert.
The New Strain
Clade Ic was first identified in Central Africa in early 2026 and has since spread to 24 countries across three continents. Unlike previous Mpox strains, Clade Ic appears to spread more efficiently through respiratory droplets, raising concerns about its pandemic potential.
WHO's Response
The WHO is coordinating a global vaccine response through the COVAX facility. The Bavarian Nordic Jynneos vaccine has been shown to be effective against the new strain in preliminary studies.
India's Preparedness
India's Health Ministry has issued an advisory to state governments and has put airport health surveillance on alert. Two suspected cases are under investigation in Mumbai, though no confirmed Clade Ic infections have been reported in India.
What You Should Know
The WHO advises avoiding close physical contact with people who have confirmed or suspected Mpox infections. There is no cause for panic — the virus is far less transmissible than influenza or COVID-19, and effective vaccines are available.
