Africa Removes Mpox Emergency Declaration, But Outbreaks Continue in 2026

The World Health Organization (WHO) recently released its 62nd situation report on the multi-country mpox outbreak, emphasizing the ongoing circulation of all clades of the monkeypox virus (MPXV). 

In 2025, there were 52,845 reported cases of mpox and 215 related fatalities across 98 countries, with about 44,000 instances originating in Africa.

The WHO urges continued vigilance, enhanced surveillance, and rapid response to contain outbreaks, warning that reduced activities could lead to underreporting. 

In a related announcement on January 22, 2026, H.E. Dr. Jean Kaseya, the Director General of the Africa Centres for Disease Control and Prevention (Africa CDC), announced that the agency has lifted its declaration of a Public Health Emergency of Continental Security concerning mpox. 

He highlighted improvements in country capacity, effective international partnerships, a sustained decline in reported suspected and confirmed cases, and a reduction in case fatality rates.

The Africa CDC stated that this change "signals a transition from emergency response to a sustained, country-led pathway toward the elimination" of mpox.

Separately, the U.S. CDC issued a Level 2 Travel Health Notice on January 26, 2026, confirming there are outbreaks of clade II monkeypox in Ghana and Liberia, where monkeypox is endemic. Unlike the ongoing global clade II mpox outbreak that began in 2022, these outbreaks have affected males and females approximately equally.

The CDC says that if you are sick and could have mpox, follow isolation and infection control measures at home and during travel. 

The CDC recommends mpox vaccination (JYNNEOS®, MVA-BN®) for travelers visiting Ghana and Liberia in 2026. For those recommended to receive vaccination, get two doses at least 28 days apart.