WHO and partners activate Global Health Emergency Corps for the first time in response to mpox outbreak
October 29, 2024
WHO has activated its Global Health Emergency Corps (GHEC) for the first time to combat mpox outbreaks in October 2024. GHEC, established in 2023 post-COVID, strengthens emergency response through expert deployment and network coordination. The activation follows WHO's August declaration of mpox as a global emergency, with 18 African countries reporting cases. WHO has deployed 56 experts to affected countries through various networks. The corps is assessing emergency capacities in 8 countries, identifying 22 areas needing improvement, including surveillance and laboratory capabilities. Technical leaders convened October 22 to coordinate outbreak control measures.
The World Health Organization has marked a significant milestone by activating its Global Health Emergency Corps (GHEC) for the first time to address the mpox outbreak in October 2024. This activation represents a new approach to coordinating international health emergency responses.
Key Components of the Response:
1. GHEC Overview:
- Established in 2023 following COVID-19 lessons
- Focuses on strengthening emergency response
- Coordinates existing health emergency networks
- Supports country-level workforce development
2. Current Deployment:
- 56 experts deployed to affected countries
- Includes WHO staff, GOARN experts, and AVoHC-SURGE responders
- Assessment of 8 affected countries' emergency capacities
- Identified 22 areas requiring strengthening
3. Focus Areas:
- Epidemiology and surveillance
- Laboratory capabilities
- Infection prevention and control
- Risk communication
- Community engagement
4. Regional Impact:
- 18 African countries reporting mpox cases
- Clade 1b spread to two additional regions
- DRC and Burundi most severely affected
- Enhanced coordination through Health Cluster partners
5. Leadership Perspectives:
- Dr. Mike Ryan emphasizes integrated approach
- Dr. Abdou Salam Gueye highlights importance of local expertise
- Technical leaders meeting to coordinate control measures
The activation demonstrates WHO's commitment to improving emergency response coordination and building regional capacity for handling health crises. The emphasis on local expertise and coordinated international support represents a new model for addressing global health emergencies.