BTN News: The World Health Organization (WHO) has declared a global health emergency following the outbreak of a new and more infectious variant of the mpox virus in 2024. Originating in Africa, this latest strain, known as clade 1B, has already spread to Europe and Asia, prompting urgent international response efforts. With over 17,500 reported cases and more than 500 deaths, concerns are growing about the virus’s potential to cause a widespread health crisis. As nations scramble to contain the outbreak, questions about the virus’s transmission, symptoms, treatments, and the need for mass vaccination remain at the forefront. Here’s what you need to know about this evolving situation.
Mpox Outbreak 2024: A Growing Global Concern
The resurgence of mpox, previously known as monkeypox, has triggered alarms worldwide. The World Health Organization (WHO) officially declared an “international health emergency” after a new variant, clade 1B, was identified as the driving force behind this year’s outbreak. With more than 17,541 cases reported in twelve African countries, including the Democratic Republic of the Congo, where fatalities have exceeded 500, the crisis has quickly spread beyond Africa’s borders. This week, the first European case was confirmed in Sweden, followed by Pakistan’s announcement of an infection in Asia.
Understanding the Mpox Virus: What Makes This Strain Dangerous?
Mpox is a zoonotic disease, meaning it can be transmitted from animals to humans, typically via contact with infected wildlife like small rodents and primates. The current strain, clade 1B, has proven more infectious and lethal than its predecessors. According to the WHO, this new variant has a mortality rate between 3% and 4%, significantly higher than the earlier clade II strain, which had a fatality rate of around 0.1%.
While the disease often causes fever, muscle pain, and a characteristic rash, it can escalate to severe complications, especially in high-risk groups such as children, pregnant women, and immunocompromised individuals. WHO Director-General Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus has expressed serious concern over the virus’s rapid spread and urged for coordinated global action.
How Is Mpox Spread? Routes of Transmission Explained
Mpox can spread through multiple pathways. Direct contact with an infected person, such as touching, kissing, or sexual contact, is the most common method of transmission. The virus can also be spread by inhaling respiratory droplets or handling contaminated objects like towels or dishes. Notably, the WHO reported that the virus has primarily spread through sexual contact during recent outbreaks, with no difference in risk between heterosexual and homosexual individuals.
Authorities advise avoiding close contact with anyone showing symptoms and practicing good hygiene to minimize the risk of transmission. For those in high-risk areas or communities, using condoms and limiting casual or group sex encounters are recommended precautions.
Who Is Most at Risk? Vulnerable Groups Identified
Certain populations are more vulnerable to severe outcomes from mpox infection. These include individuals with weakened immune systems due to conditions like HIV or cancer, pregnant women, and young children. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) also emphasize that people who have had close contact with infected animals or individuals are at elevated risk. It is crucial for these groups to take extra precautions to avoid exposure and seek immediate medical attention if they experience symptoms.
Treatment Options: What Are the Available Solutions?
While there is no specific cure for mpox, treatment options are available to manage symptoms and reduce the severity of the disease. The European Medicines Agency approved the use of an antiviral drug, tecovirimat, in 2022 for severe cases or high-risk patients. However, access to this treatment remains limited, and it is often used within clinical trials.
Additionally, three vaccines initially developed for smallpox have shown promising results against mpox. Despite this, the WHO has not called for mass vaccination campaigns, primarily due to the limited supply of available doses. Instead, vaccinations are recommended for those who have been in close contact with confirmed cases or belong to high-risk groups.
Why No Mass Vaccination Yet? WHO’s Position Explained
The WHO’s decision not to pursue a mass vaccination strategy is surprising to some, especially given the rapid spread of the virus across multiple continents. However, experts like Professor Cheryl Walter of the University of Hull explain that current vaccine supplies are insufficient to meet global demand. The existing stockpile of smallpox vaccines, which provide cross-immunity to mpox, is relatively low since smallpox was eradicated over 40 years ago. The WHO has a reserve of 2.6 million doses, far short of the 10 million doses estimated as necessary to control the outbreak.
Can You Get Infected with Mpox Twice? What We Know So Far
One of the most pressing questions surrounding mpox is whether individuals can be reinfected after recovering from the virus. According to the WHO, there is still no definitive answer. Although there have been reports of possible second infections, more research is needed to determine if immunity is developed after the first infection and how long it might last. In the meantime, the WHO advises all individuals, even those who have recovered, to continue taking precautions to prevent reinfection.
Preventing the Spread: Key Measures to Follow
To control the spread of mpox, health authorities recommend several key measures:
- Avoid close contact with infected individuals.
- Practice good hand hygiene by washing hands frequently.
- Use protective barriers, such as masks and gloves, when caring for sick individuals.
- Limit travel to regions experiencing outbreaks and consider vaccination if traveling to high-risk areas.
Conclusion: A Call for Global Action
With mpox cases rising and the virus spreading across multiple continents, a coordinated global response is essential. While treatments and vaccines offer some hope, they are not widely available. The WHO’s declaration of an international health emergency is a stark reminder of the urgency needed in addressing this outbreak. Governments, healthcare providers, and individuals must all play a role in containing the virus and protecting vulnerable populations.
