Why in the news?

The World Health Organization (WHO) has declared mpox as a “public health emergency of international concern” (PHEIC).

What is a PHEIC?

A PHEIC is a formal declaration by the WHO under the International Health Regulations (IHR), 2005.
It refers to an “extraordinary event” posing a public health risk through the international spread of disease, potentially requiring a coordinated global response.
Criteria for PHEIC:
- Serious and unusual event: Poses a significant public health risk.
- Cross-border implications: Affects more than one country.
- International response needed: Requires immediate global coordination.
Purpose: Mobilizes resources, raises awareness, and coordinates efforts to manage and contain the threat.

Mpox is a disease caused by the orthopoxvirus, related to the smallpox virus.
First detected in humans in 1970, it is endemic in central and West Africa.
Transmission: Spread from animals to humans (zoonotic) and between humans via close contact, respiratory droplets, or contaminated materials.
Symptoms: Fever, rash, swollen lymph nodes; can lead to severe complications or death.
Vaccination: WHO recommends vaccines, widely used in Nigeria and the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) to control outbreaks.

In recent years, there has been an increase in mpox cases, including the emergence of new strains such as clade 1b, which has spread to countries outside of its typical endemic regions.
This led to the declaration of mpox as a Public Health Emergency of International Concern (PHEIC) due to its potential for widespread impact.

[2014] Consider the following diseases

1. Diphtheria

2. Chickenpox

3. Smallpox

Which of the above diseases has/have been eradicated in India?

(a) 1 and 2 only

(b) 3 only

(d) None