Mpox Remains a Moderate Health Risk for Certain Men
November 2, 2025
The World Health Organization’s 59th situation report confirms that all clades of monkeypox virus continue to circulate globally, with Africa remaining the epicenter of infections. More than 80% of September’s 3,135 confirmed cases and 12 deaths occurred on the continent. While community transmission of clade Ib is expanding, WHO assesses the global risk as moderate for men who have sex with men and low for the general population. Ongoing vaccination campaigns in the Democratic Republic of the Congo have delivered more than 684,000 JYNNEOS and 118,000 LC16 doses. Sustained funding, dose-sparing strategies, and equitable vaccine access remain critical to control.
The World Health Organization’s latest situation report on the multi-country mpox outbreak paints a sobering but cautiously optimistic picture. As of early November 2025, all clades of monkeypox virus remain in circulation across all regions, underscoring the complexity of global containment. Africa continues to bear the brunt of the epidemic, with more than 80% of the 3,135 confirmed cases and 12 reported deaths in September occurring in the region.
The Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) remains at the center of the outbreak, reporting sustained community transmission and housing the majority of global vaccination efforts. More than 684,000 JYNNEOS (MVA-BN) and 118,000 LC16 vaccine doses have been administered there, accounting for more than 61% of all people vaccinated in African countries. These efforts have significantly expanded protection among high-risk groups, but logistical, financial, and operational challenges persist.
The World Health Organization has warned of increasing community transmission of the clade Ib variant, particularly among men who have sex with men, and currently assesses the public health risk as moderate for this population and low for the general public in non-endemic regions. The organization continues to emphasize the importance of national vaccination planning, including dose-sparing strategies for the MVA-BN vaccine to extend limited supplies.
Several countries have reported progress in securing additional vaccine donations and operational funding for implementation of national mpox vaccination programs. However, sustained global coordination remains essential to close the access gap.
In the United States, vaccination efforts are ongoing through pharmacies and health clinics, with JYNNEOS offered to at-risk individuals. Although the global mpox situation shows signs of stabilization, complacency remains dangerous. Continued investment in surveillance, equitable vaccine distribution, and community engagement is necessary to prevent further spread and to strengthen preparedness against future orthopoxvirus threats.