BTN News: The World Health Organization (WHO) has declared the mpox virus a global health emergency for the second time in two years. The outbreak, which originated in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), has rapidly spread across parts of Central and Eastern Africa. With over 14,500 infections and more than 450 deaths reported between early 2024 and the end of July, health experts are alarmed by the high mortality rate and speed at which the new variant is spreading. WHO Director Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus has called for a “coordinated international response” to control the outbreak and prevent further spread.
What is Mpox? Understanding the Virus Behind the Outbreak
Mpox, previously known as monkeypox, is a highly contagious viral disease caused by the mpox virus, which belongs to the same group of viruses as smallpox but is generally less severe. Initially transmitted from animals to humans, the virus has now adapted to spread between people, particularly through close contact, including skin-to-skin interaction, respiratory droplets, and even sexual contact.
Symptoms: What to Look Out For
The initial symptoms of mpox are similar to other viral infections, such as fever, headache, muscle aches, back pain, and swollen lymph nodes. These symptoms are typically followed by the appearance of a rash, which often starts on the face before spreading to other parts of the body, particularly the hands and feet. The rash can be itchy and painful, going through various stages before forming scabs and eventually falling off, potentially leaving scars. In severe cases, lesions may cover the entire body, including the mouth, eyes, and genital areas. The illness usually lasts between 14 to 21 days and can be particularly severe in children under 15 years.
How is Mpox Transmitted? Key Facts About Spread
Mpox primarily spreads through close physical contact with an infected person. This includes direct skin-to-skin contact, respiratory droplets from speaking or breathing close to another person, and touching contaminated objects such as bedding, clothing, or towels. Sexual contact is a significant mode of transmission, particularly in the current outbreak in the DRC. The virus can also be transmitted from animals, including monkeys, rats, and squirrels, to humans. Health officials stress that people in contact with infected individuals, especially healthcare workers and family members, are at high risk.
Who is Most at Risk? Identifying Vulnerable Populations
The current outbreak has seen a significant number of cases among sexually active individuals, particularly men who have sex with men (MSM). People with multiple sexual partners or new sexual partners are at higher risk. However, anyone in close contact with an infected person is at risk, including healthcare workers and family members. The WHO recommends avoiding close contact with individuals displaying symptoms and practicing good hygiene, such as frequent handwashing. In communities where mpox is present, those infected should isolate themselves until all lesions have healed completely.
New Mpox Variants: Why the Concern?
Two main strains of the mpox virus are currently circulating. The “Clade 1” strain is endemic in Central Africa, particularly in the DRC, where it causes thousands of cases and hundreds of deaths annually. A newer, more aggressive strain known as “Clade 1b” has been identified as the cause of the current outbreak, spreading more quickly and resulting in a higher mortality rate. Meanwhile, a less severe strain called “Clade II” caused a global outbreak in 2022, spreading to nearly 100 countries before being contained through targeted vaccination campaigns.
Vaccines and Treatment: What You Need to Know
While there is no specific treatment for mpox, a smallpox vaccine has shown some effectiveness in preventing the disease. However, access to vaccines and treatments remains limited, especially in regions like the DRC, where the virus is spreading rapidly. The WHO has urged pharmaceutical companies to submit their mpox vaccines for emergency use authorization to help control the outbreak, even if those vaccines have not yet been formally approved in the affected countries. At present, vaccination is recommended mainly for those at high risk or who have been in close contact with an infected person, rather than for entire populations.
What Are the Global Implications? Coordinated Efforts Needed
The WHO’s declaration of mpox as a global health emergency aims to accelerate research, funding, and the implementation of new public health measures. Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus has called for a “coordinated international response” to prevent the virus from spreading further and to protect vulnerable populations. The new outbreak has already extended beyond the DRC to neighboring countries like Burundi, Kenya, Rwanda, and Uganda, where the disease is not considered endemic, raising concerns about regional and global health security.
Moving Forward: Preventative Measures and Global Response
The WHO recommends several preventive measures to control the spread of mpox. These include promoting vaccination for high-risk individuals, maintaining strict hygiene practices, avoiding close contact with infected persons, and using condoms as a precautionary measure during sexual activities for 12 weeks after recovery. As the world faces another wave of this highly infectious disease, public health officials stress the importance of global cooperation and vigilance.
Conclusion: Addressing the Mpox Threat in 2024
As the mpox outbreak continues to surge in parts of Central and Eastern Africa, the global community must act swiftly and decisively. The WHO’s emergency declaration is a call to action for nations to invest in research, ensure equitable access to vaccines and treatments, and strengthen international health systems to prevent future outbreaks. The rapid spread and high mortality rate of the new mpox variant underscore the need for a coordinated, effective response to protect public health worldwide.
