The UN agency said in August that mpox had raised the highest level of alert under international health law following an increase in cases, mainly in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) and neighboring countries.

WHO chief Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus agreed with the committee’s advice and determined that the outbreak was still a public health emergency of international concern.

“The decision was based on the increasing number and continued geographic spread of cases, operational challenges in the field and the need to create and sustain a cohesive response across countries and partners,” the statement said.

“A significant step”

This week, the WHO approved a second smallpox vaccine for the emergency use list (EUL) – a process for evaluating the quality, safety and effectiveness of medical products.

The LC16m8 vaccine was developed and manufactured by KM Biologics in Japan.

The decision is expected to facilitate increased and timely access to vaccines in communities where mpox outbreaks are on the rise.

Dr. Yukiko Nakatani, WHO’s deputy director-general for access to medicines and health products, called it a “significant step” in responding to the current emergency.

“Vaccines are one of the important tools to help stop the outbreak as part of a comprehensive response strategy that also includes improved testing and diagnosis, treatment and care, infection prevention control, and engagement and education in affected communities.” it. said.

Haiti: Gang violence has displaced more than 40,000 people in recent days

Rising gang violence in and around Haiti’s capital, Port-au-Prince, continues to drive people from their homes, UN agencies said Friday.

More than 40,000 people have been displaced since November 11, according to the International Organization for Migration (IOM).

Despite the highly volatile situation and limited access, the UN and partners are continuing efforts to respond to growing humanitarian needs.

Since Monday, aid organizations have provided more than 250,000 liters of water to more than 10,000 people in six displacement sites in Port-au-Prince.

UN Children’s Fund (UNICEF) also distributed water and hygiene kits to 10,000 people, and IOM continues to transport water to newly created displacement sites.

Meanwhile, mobile clinics support 15,000 people with medical consultations and the World Food Program (WFP) provides food for 38,000 displaced persons daily since Saturday.

This November marks the 1000th day of Russia’s war of aggression. Civilian needs are growing amid intense attacks and as another grueling winter season sets in.

Ukraine: Almost 110 frontline towns and villages without essential utilities

The ongoing hostilities in Ukraine are escalating humanitarian needs, particularly in frontline regions, the UN Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (EYES) reported.

Attacks on energy infrastructure continue to deepen the crisis as winter approaches, leaving many without electricity, gas or water.

On Friday, a strike in the northeastern city of Sumy resulted in civilian casualties.

Authorities in Donetsk and Kherson regions also reported deaths and injuries in the recent attacks. In Donetsk, nearly 110 frontline towns and villages remain without essential utilities, worsening conditions for residents.

UN support

“We, together with our humanitarian partners, continue to provide emergency assistance to people affected by the attacks and distribute winter supplies,” UN spokesman Stéphane Dujarric said during his daily briefing in New York.

A humanitarian convoy arrived in Bilozerka in southern Ukraine on Friday, delivering hygiene kits, medical supplies, bedding and winter clothing to more than 10,000 people in more than 25 villages.

According to OCHA, this marks the 42nd convoy this year as agencies prioritize emergency assistance and preparations for the cold months ahead.

The UN stressed the need to protect civilians and critical infrastructure while ensuring urgent aid reaches those most in need.

Guterres deplores deadly attacks in Pakistan

UN Secretary General António Guterres strongly condemned the attacks in Pakistan’s Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province on Thursday that killed at least 42 people.

Gunmen opened fire on two convoys of Shia pilgrims traveling through a remote area near the border with Afghanistan, according to media reports.

The Secretary-General stressed that attacks against civilians are unacceptable.

Mr. Guterres conveyed his deepest condolences to the families of the victims and the Government of Pakistan and called on the government to conduct an investigation and ensure that those responsible are held accountable.