WHO declares global health emergency: What is Mpox, where are the outbreaks, and how likely is the virus to spread?

WHO Declares Global Health Emergency Over Mpox: What You Need to Know

The World Health Organization has declared a global health emergency due to the escalating spread of mpox in Africa, signaling that the virus may cross international borders. This announcement follows a meeting of the WHO’s emergency committee and comes just a day after the Africa Centers for Disease Control and Prevention labeled mpox a public health emergency on the continent.

What Is Mpox? Mpox, previously known as monkeypox, was first identified in 1958 during outbreaks in monkeys. Although most human cases previously occurred in central and West Africa due to contact with infected animals, the virus spread globally in 2022, with transmission occurring through sexual contact. Mpox belongs to the same virus family as smallpox but typically causes milder symptoms such as fever, chills, and body aches. Severe cases can result in lesions on the face, hands, chest, and genitals.

Current Situation in Africa The situation in Africa has become increasingly dire, with more than 14,000 cases and 524 deaths reported this year, surpassing last year’s figures. Congo is the epicenter, accounting for over 96% of cases and deaths. A new, potentially more transmissible form of mpox has emerged in Congo, causing severe symptoms and lesions on the genitals, which complicates detection and increases the risk of unnoticed spread.

Mpox has recently been identified in Burundi, Kenya, Rwanda, and Uganda, all linked to the outbreak in Congo. Meanwhile, outbreaks in Ivory Coast and South Africa involve a less severe variant that spread globally in 2022.

Global Threat and Response The new variant of mpox from Congo could potentially spread beyond Africa, with a case recently identified in Sweden. However, the general risk to the public remains low, and health officials anticipate sporadic imported cases. Richer countries have better resources to combat the virus, which could help contain potential outbreaks linked to Congo.

The WHO’s emergency declaration aims to prompt a global response, though previous declarations have had mixed results. The Africa CDC’s declaration seeks to mobilize resources and support for affected regions, particularly in light of the severe impact on children in Congo, who make up the majority of cases and deaths.

Efforts to Combat Mpox The 2022 global outbreak was managed with vaccines and treatments in wealthier countries, but Africa has faced a shortage of these resources. Vaccination, including against smallpox, is considered crucial for controlling the outbreak. Congo has requested 4 million doses, primarily for children, but has yet to receive them.

Efforts to control mpox in Africa are hampered by limited resources and ongoing health crises. Effective management will require international support to provide necessary vaccines and treatments to those most at risk.