Monkey Pox An Endemic? WHO Director General Calls it an 'International Health Emergency"

Mpox, previously known as monkeypox, is a viral infection that can occur in humans and animals. While the name might suggest monkeys as the primary carriers, the virus is believed to originate from rodents. The disease was first identified in 1958, but it was not until 2022 that it gained widespread global attention due to a significant increase in cases outside of Africa.   

WHO declared Monkeypox a PHEIC(Public Health Emergency of International Concern) for the second time in two years. The outbreak in Congo has seen a gradual rise.

What are the Symptoms of Mpox?

According to WHO guidelines, Mpox symptoms typically manifest within a week of exposure but can take up to 21 days to appear. Common symptoms include:   

• Fever   
• Headache   
• Muscle aches   
• Backache   
• Chills   
• Fatigue   
• Swollen lymph nodes   
• Rash

The rash begins as flat sores that eventually develop into blisters filled with fluid. These blisters then crust over and scab before healing.   

Transmission of Mpox:

Mpox is primarily spread through close contact with an infected person. This can occur through:   

• Direct contact with the infectious rash or scabs
• Contact with respiratory droplets during prolonged face-to-face contact   
• Contact with contaminated linens, clothing, or objects   
• Animal-to-human transmission is possible through bites, scratches, or handling infected animals or their products.   

Is the African Outbreak a Global Emergency?

The recent surge in Monkeypox cases in Africa, particularly in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), has alarmed global health authorities. A new variant has been identified in the region, which appears more easily transmissible and potentially more lethal.   

The World Health Organization (WHO) declared the outbreak a Public Health Emergency of International Concern (PHEIC) in July 2023. This designation signifies a serious, extraordinary event that poses a public health risk to other countries through the international spread of disease and requires a coordinated international response.   

What are the Current Observations?

Rapid increase in cases: The number of cases in Africa has skyrocketed, overwhelming healthcare systems in some regions. According to data given by the WHO, Monkeypox has affected 99,176 people in 116 countries from 2022. 208 people have been reported dead since then. 

A new transmissible variant: The emergence of a variant with increased transmissibility poses a significant threat to global health security. The new sexually transmissible strain clade 1b is on surge.

Vulnerable populations: Children and individuals with weakened immune systems are particularly at risk of severe illness.

Potential for international spread: Given the interconnected global community, there is a heightened risk of the virus spreading to other continents.

Challenges in Containment:

Containing the Mpox outbreak presents numerous challenges:

Limited resources: Many African countries lack the necessary infrastructure and resources to effectively respond to the outbreak.

Lack of awareness: Public awareness about Mpox prevention and symptoms is often low, hindering early detection and containment efforts.

What is the Global Response?

The global community must work together to address the mpox outbreak.

Strengthening surveillance: Improved surveillance systems are essential for tracking the spread of the virus and identifying emerging hotspots.

Vaccine development and distribution: Developing and distributing effective vaccines can help protect vulnerable populations.

Public health education: Raising awareness about mpox prevention and symptoms is crucial for reducing transmission.

International cooperation: Collaborative efforts between countries are essential for sharing information, resources, and expertise. The countries must be prepared for any emergencies. 

The mpox outbreak is a reminder of the interconnectedness of global health. There are two vaccines recommended by WHO for mpox, but the countries must educate medical practitioners about this new variation.