This is the first of a collection of technical briefs devoted to community protection for mpox. These briefs provide practical information for strengthening person- and community-centred responses to mpox. They are designed for use by people working with and among all affected communities to achieve desired outcomes for emergency mpox responses in all areas at risk.

This brief sets out a comprehensive set of actions needed at national, sub-national and local levels for community protection. As set out in the World Health Organization (WHO) Health Emergency Preparedness Response and Resilience framework (1), community protection refers to person- and community-centred actions that protect those at risk or affected by the health and social impacts of mpox (2). These actions align with the WHO Strategic framework for enhancing prevention and control of mpox (3), the Mpox global strategic preparedness and response plan (4) and the risk communication and community engagement pillar of the Mpox continental preparedness and response plan for Africa (5). This brief is relevant to countries affected, as well as to those in related preparedness phases.

This brief is intended for individuals involved in the global mpox response at national, sub-national and local levels, with a particular focus on the response efforts in Africa. It is particularly relevant for those working in public health, health services delivery – including primary care and community-based clinics – local authorities, social services, humanitarian organizations, as well as wider community-based and civil society organizations, and other public or private sector stakeholders involved in the mpox response.