For the second time since 2022 the World Health Organization (WHO) has declared monkeypox virus a global health emergency. The Mpox virus is spreading rapidly across Africa raising concerns that it could soon reach other continents. As of this year more than 14000 cases and 524 deaths have been reported in Africa exceeding last year’s figures. This announcement follows the African Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) declaring Mpox virus a public health emergency.
Mpox formerly known as monkeypox virus is a viral infection primarily affecting humans and animals. It belongs to the Orthopoxvirus genus which includes smallpox and cowpox. Monkeypox virus causes a pox-like disease characterized by a rash with raised bumps often filled with fluid or pus which eventually crust over and heal. Initially discovered in research monkeys in 1958 the monkeypox virus first infected humans in 1970 in the Democratic Republic of Congo. The WHO renamed the disease to “mpox” in 2022 to reduce stigma.
How is Monkeypox Virus Transmitted?
Mpox virus spreads through close contact with infected animals or humans. Animal-to-human transmission occurs through bites, scratches or contact with an infected animal’s fluids. Human-to-human transmission involves direct contact with skin lesions, respiratory droplets or contaminated objects like bedding. The virus can enter the body through broken skin, the respiratory tract or mucous membranes.
What Are the Symptoms of Monkeypox Virus?
Symptoms include fever, headache, muscle aches and a rash that can appear on various parts of the body. The rash progresses to pustules and scabs before healing. Lymph nodes may swell as the body fights the virus. While most infections last 2 to 4 weeks severe cases can be deadly. The incubation period ranges from 3 to 21 days and transmission can begin before symptoms appear.
Why Has Mpox Virus Been Declared a Global Emergency?
The WHO has classified monkeypox virus as a public health emergency of international concern due to a new variant emerging and spreading in African countries like Kenya and Rwanda. The declaration aims to mobilize resources and prompt global action. WHO Director-General Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus expressed concern that the virus could spread beyond Africa. Previously the WHO declared monkeypox virus a global emergency in July 2022 but lifted the status in May 2023 as cases declined.
Where Has Monkeypox Virus Spread?
The Africa CDC reported monkeypox virus cases in at least 13 African countries with a 160% increase in cases and a 19% rise in deaths compared to last year. Most cases and deaths are concentrated in Congo, where a new form of the virus causes milder symptoms and genital lesions making detection difficult. While this variant is currently limited to Africa but experts warn of a potential global spread.
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Is There a Vaccination Against this Virus?
Although mild cases resolve on their own vaccines and treatments for Mpox virus are limited. The antiviral drug tecovirimat (TPOXX) and the smallpox vaccine JYNNEOS are being used for severe cases but most of Congo’s cases involve children under 18 for whom these options are not fully approved. The CDC recommends vaccination and isolation after exposure.
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