Addressing Global Mpox Threats: Insights from the U.S. Department of State’s Health Security Team

IDOR’s Role in Global Health Security

In August, global news reported a significant health emergency: the mpox outbreak, previously called monkeypox. Concerns grew about its potential to become a pandemic.

The outbreak began in Central and East Africa, leading to the first declared Public Health Emergency of Continental Security by the Africa Centres for Disease Control and Prevention (Africa CDC), followed by a Public Health Emergency of International Concern from the World Health Organization (WHO). The Department of State’s Bureau of Global Health Security and Diplomacy (GHSD) and the Office of Infectious Diseases and Outbreak Response (IDOR) were already preparing for this situation, coordinating responses well before it made headlines.

The IDOR team explores health threats and works on various infectious diseases. They ensure U.S. leaders understand these threats and can respond effectively. Their work includes addressing insect-borne illnesses and viruses like Marburg. Ambassador Dr. John Nkengasong noted that climate change and increased travel lead to more health risks.

Kelly Landers, acting director of IDOR, emphasized the importance of prompt responses. She stated that coordinated efforts are vital for combating the negative effects of diseases.

The U.S. government’s fast action on the mpox outbreak was built on prior collaboration with the CDC, Health and Human Services (HHS), USAID, and the White House. One month later, President Joe Biden announced a $500 million commitment to support African countries in responding to mpox and pledged up to one million vaccine doses. He called for a total commitment of $1 billion from governments, charities, and businesses.

Secretary of State Antony Blinken later hosted a meeting with foreign ministers and international leaders to support health security efforts. This collaboration reflects the lessons learned from the COVID-19 pandemic, emphasizing that global health security must remain a priority in U.S. foreign policy.

IDOR, part of GHSD, coordinates numerous initiatives, including PEPFAR, which has invested over $110 billion to combat HIV/AIDS. By uniting various health security efforts, the GHSD team enhances America’s global health response capabilities.

Dr. Nkengasong highlighted the diversity of expertise within GHSD as critical to addressing health threats. Peter Velasco, deputy director at IDOR, noted that their combined expertise will help tackle complicated challenges ahead.

The ongoing efforts include enhancing the Foreign Ministry Channel for Global Health Security and participating in the Pandemic Fund and Global Fund to Fight AIDS, Tuberculosis, and Malaria. These initiatives strengthen the U.S. response to health outbreaks.

In conclusion, IDOR’s work safeguards both Americans and global communities from health threats, making health security a shared responsibility among nations.

Vince Blaser is a senior advisor in GHSD’s Office of Strategy, Communication, and Equity.