June 30, 2024 – The World Health Organization (WHO) has issued an urgent alert regarding a highly dangerous new strain of the mpox virus spreading rapidly along the eastern border of the Democratic Republic of Congo. Described as “the most dangerous yet,” this strain has been primarily driven by sexual transmission but can also spread through close skin-to-skin contact, affecting schoolchildren, healthcare workers, and entire households.
In South Africa, the virus has claimed three lives, prompting stringent border screenings. Virologist Cheryl Walter provides insight into the virus’s history, symptoms, and the alarming mutations that have scientists on high alert.
Symptoms of Mpox
Mpox presents with initial symptoms that include fatigue, aches, fever, headache, and respiratory issues, along with a distinct rash. This rash, which can be itchy and painful, quickly turns into fluid-filled blisters that scab over. The fluid in these blisters is highly infectious, and the virus can spread through shared items like towels or toothbrushes. Some individuals show minimal symptoms, complicating containment efforts.
Rising Concerns Over Recent Outbreaks
The current mpox outbreak can be traced back to Nigeria around 2016, spreading to 116 countries and leading to a public health emergency declaration by the WHO in July 2022. To date, 97,745 infections and 203 deaths have been recorded, primarily from the less severe clade II variants. The virus’s rapid transmission and mutation rates are alarming, with new sub-clades Ib and IIb emerging.
What is Mpox?
Formerly known as monkeypox, mpox is related to cowpox and the eradicated smallpox virus. First identified in laboratory monkeys in the 1950s and in humans in the 1970s in the Democratic Republic of Congo, mpox viruses are categorized into clade I and clade II, with clade I being more lethal. Recent outbreaks have disproportionately affected high-risk groups, including sex workers and men who have sex with men.
Urgent Actions Needed
To combat the mpox spread, the following measures are crucial:
•Clear information on transmission and testing locations is essential. Efforts to reduce stigma, as seen in the HIV/AIDS crisis, are critical.
•Development of a specific mpox vaccine is underway, with mRNA vaccine trials in progress. Improved antiviral drugs are also needed.
• The discontinuation of smallpox vaccinations, which also protected against mpox, may have contributed to the current outbreak. Increasing smallpox vaccine production could help mitigate the spread.
The rapid spread and mutation of mpox necessitate immediate global cooperation to prevent further escalation and protect vulnerable populations.
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