Mpox: Neglect has led to a more dangerous virus now spreading across borders

The ongoing mpox outbreaks in Africa, driven by various clades including a newly identified Ib variant, are a severe concern. Despite mpox being endemic in several African countries for years, international attention surged only when clade IIb spread to wealthy nations in 2022. African outbreaks, where cases have surpassed 17,000 and led to 517 deaths in 2024 alone, have been largely neglected. Urgent action, political leadership, and significant financial support are needed to contain the spread and prevent future pandemics.