WOAH statement on novel mpox

The World Organisation for Animal Health (WOAH) is closely monitoring the rapid spread of the novel mpox strain amongst humans due to the zoonotic nature of the virus. 

The current upsurge in the novel strain of mpox (clade 1b) in humans from a growing number of countries in Africa, along with sporadic cases in Asia and Europe, has led to its classification as a public health emergency of international concern by the World Health Organization (WHO). 

First discovered in 1958, mpox is caused by an Orthopoxvirus called Monkeypox virus (MPXV). Endemic to West and Central Africa, the virus is found in both animals (rodents, non-human primates and other mammals) and humans. The disease can cause clinical signs like skin lesions, scabs, fever and swollen lymph nodes in both animals and humans. In some cases, it does not cause any apparent clinical signs. MPXV can be transmitted from animals to humans, as well as from humans to animals.

As of 23 August 2024, WOAH has not received any confirmed reports of MPXV clade 1b in animals. Although WOAH Members are required to officially notify listed diseases, and MPXV is not a listed disease, they are encouraged to inform WOAH about the identification of MPXV in animals. 

WOAH is responding to this challenge by actively encouraging its Members to report confirmed cases of mpox in animals, as well as to take appropriate risk mitigation measures. To reduce the risk of human to animal transmission, WOAH has developed guidance for various risk groups. To raise awareness on the topic, WOAH has also developed a set of online resources including prevention and diagnosis strategies for animals. In addition, WOAH is constantly consulting its Reference Centres and expert groups on mpox and emerging diseases, while collaborating with its partners like WHO to take a One Health approach.  

WOAH calls on its Members to: 

• Consider mpox as a differential diagnosis in animals showing clinical signs compatible with the disease, and that have been previously exposed to human cases. 
• Inform WOAH, via [email protected], about the occurrence of cases of mpox in animals and submit genetic sequences to public databases. 
• Consult WOAH’s resources and guidance to reduce the risk of mpox in animals.  
• Ensure effective coordination and communication using a One Health approach, between wildlife services, Veterinary Services and public health services. 

WOAH calls on the public to: 

• Take appropriate hygiene and biosecurity measures, such as washing hands and using personal protective equipment, before and after handling animals from a household with a probable or confirmed human mpox case. 

• Do not approach or touch animals that are sick or found dead in endemic areas.  

• Inform your veterinarian if any companion animals, domestic animals or wildlife were exposed to mpox and show clinical signs compatible with the disease.  

WOAH is fully committed to supporting its Members and other stakeholders to monitor and mitigate the risks associated with mpox. We will continue to engage with our networks of Reference Centres, experts and partners, to take a One Health approach and provide updates as more information becomes available.