WHO Declares Mpox Outbreak in Africa a Public Health Emergency

Mpox Outbreak in DR Congo Sparks Global Concern

The World Health Organization (WHO) has officially declared the mpox outbreak in parts of Africa as a public health emergency of international concern. The disease, previously known as monkeypox, has resulted in the deaths of at least 450 people during an initial outbreak in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DR Congo). The outbreak, which has severely impacted both children and adults, has raised alarms across the continent.

Spread and Prevalence of Mpox

Mpox, caused by the monkeypox virus, belongs to the same family of viruses as smallpox but is significantly less harmful. Originally transmitted from animals to humans, the virus now spreads between humans, particularly in remote villages within the tropical rainforests of Africa. Countries like DR Congo report the highest number of mpox cases, with thousands of infections and hundreds of deaths occurring annually, particularly affecting children under 15, who are the most vulnerable.

Two Distinct Clades of Mpox Identified

There are two main types of mpox: Clade 1 and Clade 2. In 2022, the relatively mild Clade 2 caused a public health emergency, spreading to nearly 100 countries outside Africa. However, the more lethal Clade 1 currently drives the outbreak, historically killing up to 10% of those infected. A new variant, Clade 1b, has emerged and is spreading rapidly, prompting concerns among health experts.

Rising Mpox Cases Across Africa

According to the Africa Centres for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), there were over 14,500 mpox infections and more than 450 deaths from the disease between January and July 2024, marking a significant increase compared to the same period in 2023. While the majority of cases remain in DR Congo, the disease has also spread to neighbouring countries, including Burundi, Kenya, Rwanda, and Uganda, where it is not typically endemic.

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Symptoms and Transmission of Mpox

Initial symptoms of mpox include fever, headaches, swollen lymph nodes, and muscle aches, followed by the development of a painful rash. The virus spreads primarily through close contact with infected individuals, including sexual contact and skin-to-skin interactions. Contaminated objects like bedding and clothing, along with close contact with infected animals, also transmit the virus.

Efforts to Control the Mpox Outbreak

Controlling the spread of mpox relies heavily on vaccination. However, access to vaccines and treatments remains limited, particularly in DR Congo. The WHO urges drug manufacturers to submit their mpox vaccines for emergency use, even in countries that have not yet granted formal approval. With the Africa CDC’s declaration of a continent-wide public health emergency, there is hope for a more coordinated response and an increase in medical supplies and aid to affected areas.

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