WHO Webinar: Integrating HIV, Syphilis, and Mpox Testing for Better Health Outcomes

On July 23, 2025, the World Health Organization (WHO) will host a pivotal webinar aimed at enhancing public health strategies through the integration of HIV and syphilis testing within the mpox response framework. This session will focus on disseminating WHO guidance, sharing practical tools, and providing feedback garnered from field implementations in affected regions, particularly the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) and Sierra Leone.

The resurgence of mpox globally since 2022 has underscored the need for a multifaceted approach to disease management. According to the WHO, there is a notable correlation between mpox and HIV prevalence, particularly in the DRC, where testing and surveillance efforts require immediate strengthening to address public health priorities related to sexually transmitted infections (STIs). The webinar will discuss recent findings revealing a significant incidence of HIV among individuals diagnosed with mpox, coupled with an escalated risk of severe disease in immunocompromised patients.

Dr. Lorenzo Subissi, a representative from WHO's Emergency Preparedness and Management (EPM) department, will lead discussions on the rationale behind integrating these testing services. “The integration of HIV and syphilis testing into mpox testing services not only enhances early detection but also fortifies community health systems,” Dr. Subissi stated. This integrated approach is considered crucial for ensuring a coordinated response for at-risk populations.

The webinar will feature insights from various experts, including Robert Banaï, a WHO consultant who will share firsthand experiences from the DRC, and Dr. Lakoh, Director of Disease Prevention and Control from the Ministry of Health in Sierra Leone, who will provide an overview of regional responses to mpox and lessons learned.

The WHO has developed a Standard Operating Procedure (SOP) to guide healthcare professionals in implementing these integrated testing protocols. This document details the systematic offering of HIV and syphilis tests alongside mpox testing and provides additional assessments for individuals testing positive for these diseases. The SOP is designed to be utilized in resource-limited settings, ensuring that healthcare providers can effectively implement these practices in the field.

During the webinar, participants will also have the opportunity to engage in a Q&A session, further enriching the discourse on best practices and challenges faced in the integration of these testing services. Announcing the event, Anne Bekelynck from WHO's Health and Emergency Services (HHS) emphasized the significance of cross-sector collaboration: “This webinar serves as a platform for healthcare professionals and community partners to exchange valuable insights that can enhance our collective response to public health challenges.”

The implications of this integrated approach extend beyond immediate health benefits. By fostering collaboration between stakeholders, healthcare services, and levels of care, the WHO aims to strengthen the overall public health infrastructure in regions grappling with mpox, HIV, and syphilis. As the global health landscape continues to evolve, the strategies discussed during this webinar may serve as a template for integrating responses to emerging infectious diseases in other contexts.

In conclusion, the WHO's initiative to integrate HIV and syphilis testing into the mpox response underscores a crucial shift towards comprehensive healthcare that addresses interconnected health challenges. As more countries adopt similar integration strategies, the potential for improved health outcomes for vulnerable populations increases significantly.