The World Health Organization has recently declared the ongoing outbreaks of mpox in Congo and other parts of Africa to be a global emergency, emphasizing the urgent need for action to prevent further spread of the virus. This comes as Sweden announced the first case of a new form of mpox, previously only seen in Africa, in a traveler. European health authorities have also warned of more imported cases likely to occur.
Mpox, also known as monkeypox, is primarily spread through close skin-to-skin contact with infected individuals or their contaminated belongings. Unlike airborne viruses that typically cause pandemics, mpox does not spread as rapidly, as it often presents visible skin lesions that may deter close contact with others. To stay safe, experts recommend avoiding contact with those displaying mpox-like lesions, refraining from sharing personal items, and practicing good hygiene habits like regular hand-washing.
Europe’s Centre for Disease Prevention and Control has cautioned that imported cases of mpox from Africa are highly probable, but the risk of local outbreaks in Europe remains low. Scientists assert that the general population in areas without ongoing mpox outbreaks face a low risk of infection. Despite the likelihood of imported cases, the chances of widespread transmission in unaffected regions are minimal.
In comparison to the rapid spread of COVID-19, mpox progresses much slower. While COVID-19 cases surged exponentially within weeks of its identification in China, it took years for mpox infections to reach nearly 100,000 cases globally. Unlike the early days of the COVID-19 pandemic, there are vaccines and treatments available for mpox, offering a more optimistic outlook for containment.
The 2022 mpox outbreak in over 70 countries was partially subdued within months due to vaccination initiatives and access to treatments in developed nations. However, the majority of current mpox cases are concentrated in Africa, particularly in Congo, where the health system is strained from various other illnesses. Despite the declaration of a global emergency, Africa has struggled to secure vaccines and treatments for mpox.
Experts emphasize the importance of prioritizing Africa in combatting the mpox outbreaks to prevent further escalation. Investing in resources and aid for African nations is crucial in containing the virus and safeguarding global health. By taking decisive action now, the world can effectively control the spread of mpox and mitigate the impact of the ongoing outbreaks.
