Interim guidance on social and behavioural research for the mpox public health response
To support a more community-centred response to the mpox public health emergency, WHO has released new interim guidance on how to conduct ethical, high-quality social and behavioural research during outbreaks. This first-of-its-kind document sets out clear principles for research design, stakeholder engagement, data protection, and responsible use of findings—aimed at informing real-time decision-making and improving public health interventions.
Developed through wide consultation with researchers, public health actors and affected communities, the guidance is tailored to the realities of emergency settings and diverse social contexts. It highlights the importance of inclusive, participatory research approaches and the need for actionable evidence to inform communication strategies, tackle stigma, and support equitable access to care.