WHO Expresses Concern Over New Mpox Strain as Global Cases and Deaths Rise
The World Health Organization (WHO) has raised concerns about a new strain of the mpox virus, formerly known as monkeypox. The virus has already resulted in more than 450 deaths, prompting fears within the international community due to its high virulence and mortality rates. Authorities are considering implementing new measures as the situation evolves, with projections indicating that the death toll could continue to rise.
Mpox, a viral disease that causes skin lesions and rashes, particularly on the face, hands, and feet, has seen a significant increase in cases. The WHO has reported a sharp rise in infections, especially among younger individuals, with those under 15 years old being disproportionately affected. According to the journal Science, 70% of the current cases involve this age group, which also accounts for 87% of the reported deaths.
Transmission and Symptoms
The mpox virus can be transmitted through various means. In addition to transmission from infected animals, particularly rodents, the virus can spread from person to person through direct contact with bodily fluids, skin lesions, or blood. Significant outbreaks have also been linked to sexual transmission. The virus can be contracted not only through direct contact with an infected person but also by touching contaminated objects.
Symptoms of mpox include:
- Skin rashes, a hallmark of the disease.
- Fever
- Headaches
- Muscle pain
The virus was first identified in Africa around 1970, and the continent remains the most affected by the recent surge in cases.
Impacted Regions
While mpox is endemic in nearly half of the provinces in the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC), the international community has become increasingly concerned over the marked rise in cases over the past two years. The number of cases tripled in 2023 and has continued to do so in 2024.
Africa remains the hardest-hit continent, with the DRC declaring a state of epidemic in 2022. Recently, there has been a surge in cases in Rwanda, Burundi, and Kenya. The outbreak in Kenya is particularly concerning for the WHO, given that it coincides with the peak tourist season, when millions of travelers are expected to visit the region.
International Emergency Consideration
WHO Director-General Tedros Adhanom recently announced on social media that he is considering convening an International Health Regulations Emergency Committee to assess whether the mpox outbreak should be declared a Public Health Emergency of International Concern (PHEIC).
Maria Van Kerkhove, the WHO's Director of Epidemic and Pandemic Preparedness and Prevention, echoed these concerns, noting the spread of the outbreak beyond the DRC to neighboring countries. In response, various nations are ramping up vaccination efforts in hopes of curbing the spread of the virus.
The Situation in Spain
Spain currently has the highest number of mpox cases in Europe since the 2022 outbreak. As of now, the country has reported 8,101 cases, with 260 new cases confirmed this year, the majority in Madrid. Spanish health authorities are particularly concerned because approximately 90% of recent cases involved unvaccinated individuals, highlighting the urgent need to complete vaccination regimens.
Vaccination and Prevention Measures
Vaccination is crucial in the fight against mpox. In Spain, only 50% of individuals who started the vaccination process have completed the required doses. The Spanish Ministry of Health emphasizes the importance of receiving the second dose to ensure full protection and prevent further outbreaks.
To manage and prevent the spread of mpox, the Madrid Health Department recommends the following actions:
- Practice safe sex and communicate openly about health status with partners.
- Avoid intimate contact with individuals who show signs of skin lesions that could be indicative of mpox.
- Refrain from sharing personal items such as clothing, bedding, towels, or kitchen utensils with those who are ill.
- Maintain good hand hygiene by frequently washing hands with soap and water or using hand sanitizers, especially after contact with sick individuals.
- Wear masks when interacting with people who are infected.
The global health community continues to monitor the situation closely, with efforts focused on containing the virus and preventing further spread.
