Following a period of decline,mpox cases are again appearing in the French overseas territories of Réunion and Mayotte,prompting renewed concerns about global pandemic preparedness [[1]]. While the World Health Institution no longer considers mpox a Public Health Emergency of International Concern,the re-emergence of the virus – notably in vulnerable island communities – is raising questions about the effectiveness of existing response plans and the lessons learned from the COVID-19 pandemic [[2]]. Local officials are balancing public reassurance with calls for bolstered infrastructure and swifter action to prevent a wider outbreak [[3]].
2024 Thomson Reuters
The World Health Organization (WHO) has triggered its highest level of health alert globally on Wednesday, August 14, in response to a resurgence of mpox cases. (Illustration photo from the DRC)
The detection of new mpox cases in Réunion and Mayotte is prompting concerns about potential failures in pandemic preparedness and places these French overseas territories at the forefront of epidemic vigilance.
Following the identification of an initial case in Réunion, and subsequently two more in Mayotte this week, Réunion Member of Parliament Karine Lebon has questioned the government’s response, as reported by La Première Réunion. Lebon expressed fears that the alert may be downplayed, despite the virus circulating in the Indian Ocean and frequent regional travel. She argues that simply calling for vigilance isn’t enough; readily available resources and a scalable organizational structure are also crucial.
These concerns stem from recent experiences. During the COVID-19 crisis, Réunion experienced logistical delays and slow decision-making. Lebon aims to prevent a repeat scenario: a virus initially appearing under the radar, followed by a delayed response. This highlights the importance of proactive public health infrastructure.
In response to these alerts, the government assures that a response plan is in place. The Minister of Health stated that identified cases have been isolated, health investigations have not revealed active virus circulation, and vaccine and test supplies are available. Targeted vaccination, particularly for contacts and vulnerable individuals, could be rapidly deployed if necessary.
In Mayotte, the Regional Health Agency reports a family-based infection linked to travel to Madagascar and confirms that follow-up measures have been initiated without delay. Authorities remind the public that mpox is primarily transmitted through close, prolonged physical contact, urging vigilance regarding symptoms.
Although mpox is no longer classified as a Public Health Emergency of International Concern, it remains a sensitive indicator in island territories, where every health signal carries political weight. The focus is now shifting from the number of cases to the capacity for proactive anticipation and preparedness.
