Geneva— The recent outbreak of mpox has raised concerns globally, but the World Health Organization (WHO) has clarified that this is not another COVID-19 situation. According to the WHO’s European director Hans Kluge, the virus responsible for mpox, particularly the Clade 1b strain, is relatively well-understood, and there are established methods to control its spread. While more research is needed on the Clade 1b strain, Kluge emphasized that the outbreak can be reined in effectively.
In July 2022, the WHO declared a Public Health Emergency of International Concern (PHEIC) due to the international outbreak of the less severe Clade 2b strain of mpox, primarily affecting gay and bisexual men. This alarm was lifted by May 2023, signaling progress in managing the outbreak. Kluge underscored that despite the seriousness of the situation, mpox is not on the same scale as COVID-19, and measures to control it are well within reach.
The WHO’s successful control of mpox in Europe two years ago can serve as a blueprint for managing the current situation. Through direct engagement with affected communities, robust surveillance measures, thorough contact tracing, and effective public health advice, the outbreak was contained. Behavior change initiatives, non-discriminatory public health actions, and mpox vaccination played crucial roles in controlling the spread of the virus.
Kluge reassured the public that the risk to the general population from mpox remains low. Unlike COVID-19, there is no need for widespread lockdown measures in response to the virus. The primary mode of transmission for mpox is close skin-to-skin contact, although transmission through droplets in certain circumstances is also possible. However, further research is required to fully understand the modes of transmission of the virus.
It is important to note that the WHO is not recommending the use of masks as a preventive measure against mpox. Instead, the focus is on targeted vaccination efforts in outbreak settings for groups at higher risk of contracting the virus. The WHO’s spokesperson Tarik Jasarevic emphasized the importance of using vaccines strategically to protect vulnerable populations.
The recent declaration of an international health emergency by the WHO on August 14 highlights the gravity of the situation, particularly in regions like the Democratic Republic of Congo where the Clade 1b strain has caused significant impact. With the rise in cases and the spread of the virus to neighboring countries, urgent intervention is crucial to prevent further escalation of the outbreak.
In conclusion, while the mpox outbreak presents challenges, global health organizations like the WHO are well-equipped to handle the situation effectively. By leveraging past experiences, implementing targeted interventions, and prioritizing vaccination efforts, the spread of mpox can be contained. Collaboration at international levels, timely response mechanisms, and community engagement are key components in combating the mpox outbreak and safeguarding public health.
