Deadlier strain of Mpox is spreading in Africa

The recent declaration of Mpox as a public health emergency in Africa underscores the urgent need for a coordinated response to emerging infectious diseases. The World Health Organization (WHO) has recognized that Mpox, previously known as monkeypox, poses significant risks to public health due to its increasing incidence and potential for widespread transmission. This situation is particularly concerning in African nations where healthcare systems often face challenges related to resource allocation, infrastructure, and access to medical care.

Mpox is characterized by symptoms including fever, rash, and lymphadenopathy, and while it is primarily transmitted through close contact with infected individuals or animals, its zoonotic nature raises concerns about spillover events into human populations. The resurgence of Mpox cases has highlighted the interconnectedness of global health; outbreaks can quickly transcend national borders due to globalization and increased travel. Consequently, the WHO's declaration calls for immediate action not only within African countries but also globally to mitigate the risk of international spread.

According to CDC data as of August 4, there had been 38,465 cases of mpox and 1,456 deaths in Africa since January 2022.

“This declaration is not merely a formality, it is a clarion call to action. It is a recognition that we can no longer afford to be reactive. We must be proactive and aggressive in our efforts to contain and eliminate this threat,” said Kaseya.

Mpox is transmitted through close contact and causes rashes, flu-like symptoms and pus-filled lesions. Most cases are mild but it can kill. The disease can be dangerous for children, pregnant women and those with suppressed immune systems.

For decades, mpox caused sporadic cases and outbreaks in Nigeria, the Democratic Republic of the Congo, and several other African countries. There are two main strains of mpox: clade I, which causes more severe illness and has historically been confined to central Africa, and clade II, which has historically caused infections in west Africa.

In May 2022, countries outside of Africa suddenly started recording mpox cases which were caused by the clade II type. That July, the World Health Organization declared the pandemic a public health emergency of international concern. By May 2023, more than 100 countries had recorded nearly 90,000 mpox cases and over 150 deaths.

There are two main strains of the virus known to exist. The milder one caused the global outbreak in 2022 that affected Europe, Australia, the US and many other countries - and was mainly spread through sexual contact.

The second more deadly strain, endemic in central Africa, is behind the new recently discovered variant in DR Congo.

There are three vaccines that exist but only people at risk or who have been in close contact with an infected person are usually able to have it.

Dr Kaseya said there were plans to secure about 10 million doses to limit the spread of the disease in Africa.

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Sarah H

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