Monkeypox Research Priorities Set by WHO Consultation

In light of recent outbreaks of monkeypox in both endemic and non-endemic countries, the R&D plan by WHO organised a worldwide research consultation with more than five hundred experts and over two thousand volunteers to highlight gaps in knowledge and research guideline for dealing with monkeypox.

For two days, high-level experts and researchers from around the world had a virtual conference to discuss the existing evidence on the virus's epidemiology, transmission dynamics, characteristics of the virus, One Health research, community engagement, and actions against disease, such as clinical care, treatments, and vaccines.

A consensus was reached that effective treatments should be made accessible according to the greatest need.

Improved monkeypox control in endemic nations is crucial for addressing disease incidence rises as well as preventing outbreaks and importation in other countries.

Experts from endemic nations, who comes with a lot of expertise and the current data regarding the illness, as well as experts from other nations, agreed that stronger cooperation would guarantee that scientific understanding progresses more swiftly.

Experts stressed the need of completing research quickly in order to better comprehend the disease's epidemiology, clinical effects, and the significance of multiple mechanisms of transmission.

A complete One Health approach to understanding zoo tonic transmission and animal carriers was also highlighted, as a better approach to engage and communicate among groups in affected areas, studies to optimise supportive clinical care, recording the best treatment and control practices, and promote transparent communication.

Clinical trials of vaccinations and medicines are also needed, according to experts, to better record their effectiveness and to check how to utilise them in future and current outbreaks.

To restrict the spread of the virus and support those who are afflicted, public health measures such as providing preventative information, increased disease monitoring, tracing of contacts, isolating patients, and optimum treatment of those with the virus should be implemented as soon as possible.