EU Health Security Committee Assesses Low Risk of Mpox Spread in Europe
On Monday, the EU Health Security Committee reached a conclusion regarding the current assessment of the mpox (formerly known as monkeypox) outbreak, determining that the risk of its spread throughout Europe remains low. This assessment led to recommendations against implementing stringent measures such as border controls or extending vaccination efforts to the wider population outside of existing risk groups.
In Spain, the Health Ministry, represented by the Director General of Public Health, Pedro Gullón, confirmed that there is a stockpile of 500,000 vaccine doses available. These doses can potentially be converted into 2 million doses through a maximum of five intradermal injections per individual. Furthermore, the Ministry highlighted the prospect of acquiring additional vaccines if needed, reflecting a proactive approach to public health.
The committee session was convened shortly after the World Health Organization (WHO) declared a global health emergency, linked to the emergence of a new mpox variant, clade II, identified across nearly twenty African countries. While European nations remain vigilant for potential imported cases—evidence of which has already been observed in Sweden—the consensus among health officials is that the risk to the general population in the EU remains minimal.
In higher-risk settings, specifically among populations in close contact with confirmed cases and those classified as particularly vulnerable, the risk is acknowledged as greater. In light of this, EU member nations are advised to avoid imposing border controls or extending vaccination beyond at-risk individuals.
In Spain, Minister of Health Mónica García expressed intentions to gather a team comprised of experts from various health institutions, such as the Health Alerts and Emergencies Coordination Center (CCAES), to evaluate the implications of the EU committee’s findings. There are discussions concerning potential updates to the vaccination strategy and measures specifically for travelers heading to at-risk countries. Spain has yet to report any cases of the new variant, though officials have not ruled out its presence within the country. The Ministry has reassured the public that recent positive cases have not shown any increase in severity or symptoms when compared to reported cases since April 2022.
Reflecting on past data, García noted a significant decline in annual cases, from 7,500 to 264, attributed to effective surveillance and vaccination measures. Mpox continues to be a focus of state vigilance, with an emphasis on caution as health officials adapt their response strategies amidst evolving circumstances in Spain and beyond.
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