EPI-WIN digest 51 - New guidelines for mpox clinical management and infection prevention and control

Overview

Since the 2022 global outbreak of Mpox, caused by the monkeypox virus (MPXV), the epidemiological landscape has continued to evolve. While the initial outbreaks centered on clade IIb in non-endemic countries, 2024 has seen a resurgence of Mpox in parts of Africa, particularly clade I variants, and concerning cross-border transmissions. In August 2024, WHO declared a second Public Health Emergency of International Concern (PHEIC) in response to the rising epidemic risk posed by MPXV.

The WHO Mpox clinical and infection prevention and control (IPC) guidelines newly published in June 2025, provide critical evidence-based recommendations for frontline responders and health and care workers globally. These include improved recommendations on supportive care, home-based management, protective measures for healthcare workers, and special considerations for populations with HIV, breastfeeding infants, and those at risk of complications.

Up-to-date clinical guidelines from WHO help healthcare providers to deliver safe and effective care, rooted in the best evidence and applicable across diverse health systems. Recommendations aim to prevent mpox transmission, improve outcomes, and reduce disease complications. They focus on protecting patients and frontline workers—especially in low-resource and high-burden settings – and address increasing challenges such as co-infections, care of vulnerable populations, and provision of care at home where appropriate.

For further information, please watch the EPI-WIN Webinar 'new guidelines for mpox clinical management and infection prevention and control'.