Surveillance, case investigation and contact tracing for mpox: interim guidance, 27 November 2024

Overview

This is an updated version of the interim guidance for surveillance, case investigation and contact-tracing for mpox published on 20 May 2024. It applies to all countries.

The overall goal of surveillance, case investigation and contact tracing for mpox is to detect new outbreaks and stop transmission, protect people at risk in endemic and new settings, and make progress towards elimination of human-to-human transmission of mpox.

Probable and confirmed cases of mpox should be reported to WHO through national IHR focal at least monthly, and with a minimum epidemiological dataset. African countries should report weekly on suspected, probable, and confirmed mpox cases. All confirmed cases of clade Ib MPXV should be reported to WHO as soon as they are confirmed.

If mpox is suspected, case investigation should consist of a clinical examination and safe collection and dispatch of specimens for laboratory testing.

Contacts of probable and confirmed cases should be monitored, or should self-monitor, daily for any sign or symptom for a period of 21 days from last contact with an infectious case or contaminated materials. Contacts do not require quarantine or exclusion from work during the contact monitoring period as long as they are symptom-free. WHO encourages contacts to rigorously practice hand hygiene and respiratory etiquette, avoid contact with persons who are immunocompromised or pregnant and avoid sexual contact throughout the 21-day monitoring period. Non-essential travel is discouraged during this period.