The African Centres for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) declared Mpox, formerly monkeypox, a public health emergency in Africa. The decision comes in response to the alarming spread of a new and more virulent virus strain. Since the beginning of the year, over 13,700 cases and 450 deaths have been reported in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DR Congo).
The virus, which can cause severe lesions and systemic symptoms, has also been detected in other countries, including Burundi, the Central African Republic, Kenya, and Rwanda. The public health emergency declaration aims to enhance coordination among governments, expedite the flow of medical supplies, and mobilize international aid to combat the outbreak. Health authorities outside Africa are also monitoring the situation closely to assess the risk of further spread.
Mpox is transmitted from animals to humans through close human-to-human contact, including sexual activity, skin-to-skin contact, and respiratory droplets. Symptoms typically include fever, muscle aches, and a characteristic rash that evolves into painful lesions. There are two main strains of the Mpox virus.
The less severe strain caused the global outbreak 2022, affecting countries across Europe, Australia, and the Americas, primarily spreading through sexual contact. The more lethal strain, which is endemic in central Africa, is responsible for the current outbreak in DR Congo. This more dangerous strain drives the outbreak in DR Congo, and experts warn that it is the most severe variant they have encountered.
There are currently three vaccines available for Mpox. Still, they are generally reserved for those at high risk or who have been in close contact with infected individuals. The World Health Organization (WHO) does not recommend widespread vaccination.
Still, it emphasizes the need for further research on vaccine efficacy against new strains. Mpox was historically endemic in parts of West and Central Africa, with significant annual cases and fatalities. The 2022 global epidemic marked a notable increase in cases outside traditionally affected regions.
Symptoms of Mpox include initial fever, headache, and muscle aches, followed by a rash that often begins on the face and spreads to other body parts. Severe cases can involve widespread lesions and complications affecting vital areas like the mouth, eyes, and genitals. Transmission occurs through direct contact with infected individuals, contaminated objects, or animals carrying the virus.
High-risk groups include sexually active individuals, particularly those with multiple partners. Preventive measures include avoiding close contact with infected persons, practising good hygiene, and using condoms for 12 weeks after recovery. Effective management of Mpox outbreaks relies on timely vaccination, treatment of severe cases, and robust public health responses.
Declaring a public health emergency underscores the urgency of addressing the ongoing crisis and mitigating its impact..
