BTN News: The recent resurgence of Mpox, formerly known as monkeypox, has reignited global fears, especially as the virus spreads more rapidly and lethally than before. With the World Health Organization (WHO) declaring it an international health emergency, the situation has escalated, demanding urgent global attention. The virus, a close relative of the smallpox pathogen, has not only tightened its grip across Africa but has also breached borders, making its way to Europe and Asia. This spread has raised alarms, as health officials scramble to contain it and prevent a pandemic. With over 17,000 cases reported in 12 African countries and more than 500 deaths so far in 2024, the threat of Mpox is real and growing.
Mpox is a zoonotic disease, meaning it can jump from animals to humans, which makes its containment particularly challenging. The virus is endemic to parts of Central and Western Africa, where it is typically found in small mammals like rodents and monkeys. Once transmitted to humans, the virus can spread through close contact, including through respiratory droplets, physical touch, or even sexual contact. The symptoms of Mpox include fever, muscle aches, and a characteristic rash that often begins on the face and spreads to other parts of the body, including the palms, soles, and even the genital and anal areas. While the rash usually resolves within a few weeks, the disease can be deadly, particularly for certain high-risk groups.
The WHO has identified two main clades of the Mpox virus: Clade I and Clade II. Clade II is generally less dangerous, with a mortality rate of around 0.1%. However, the current outbreak is driven by a mutation of Clade I, known as Clade 1B, which has a much higher fatality rate of 3-4%. This makes it significantly more lethal than COVID-19, which had an estimated fatality rate of 1.2%. The WHO has reported that the death toll in the Democratic Republic of the Congo alone has exceeded 500, highlighting the severity of the situation.
Particularly vulnerable to Mpox are children, pregnant women, and individuals with compromised immune systems, such as those living with HIV or cancer. These groups are at a higher risk of developing severe, potentially fatal, cases of the disease. The virus can spread from animals to humans through bites, scratches, or consumption of undercooked meat from infected animals. Human-to-human transmission occurs through close physical contact, respiratory droplets, or even through objects handled by an infected person, such as utensils or towels.
The global health community is scrambling to find effective treatments and vaccines. While there are antiviral drugs like tecovirimat that have been approved for use against Mpox, these are generally reserved for severe cases or high-risk individuals due to limited availability. There are also vaccines that were originally developed for smallpox that show promise against Mpox. However, the WHO has not yet called for mass vaccination, primarily due to the limited supply of these vaccines. The organization recommends that the available doses be prioritized for those who have been in close contact with infected individuals or who belong to high-risk groups.
The decision not to pursue mass vaccination campaigns is also influenced by logistical challenges and vaccine availability. The stockpile of smallpox vaccines, which also offers protection against Mpox, has remained low since the eradication of smallpox over four decades ago. Increasing production to meet current needs will take time, leaving many unprotected in the interim. The African Center for Disease Control and Prevention estimates that at least 10 million doses are needed to address the current crisis, but global reserves are insufficient to meet this demand.
Another pressing concern is whether a prior infection with Mpox provides lasting immunity. The WHO has stated that it is still unclear how long immunity lasts following an Mpox infection, and there have been reports of individuals contracting the virus more than once. This uncertainty further complicates efforts to control the outbreak and protect populations at risk.
As Mpox continues to spread across Africa and beyond, it is crucial that international efforts to combat the virus are intensified. The WHO’s declaration of an international health emergency is a clear signal that the current strategies are insufficient. More resources, including vaccines and treatments, need to be made available to curb the spread of the virus. Additionally, public health campaigns must focus on educating the public about the risks of Mpox, particularly in areas where the virus is spreading rapidly.
In conclusion, Mpox is a growing global threat that requires urgent attention. The virus, once confined to specific regions of Africa, is now spreading across continents, fueled by a more lethal variant. While some treatments and vaccines are available, their limited supply and the logistical challenges of distribution mean that many remain vulnerable. The international community must act swiftly and decisively to prevent Mpox from becoming the next global pandemic.
