The Global Emergency of Mpox in Africa
Scientists are deeply concerned about the rapid spread of a new variant of the disease in Congo that appears to be more easily transmissible among people.
The World Health Organization (WHO) has declared the escalating spread of Mpox in Africa as a global health emergency, with fears of the virus crossing international borders. The declaration came following a meeting of the U.N. health agency’s emergency committee, where the Africa Centers for Disease Control and Prevention also deemed Mpox a public health emergency on the continent.
WHO has reported over 14,000 cases and 524 deaths from Mpox in Africa this year, surpassing last year’s figures significantly. The majority of cases and deaths, more than 96%, are concentrated in Congo. Scientists are particularly worried about a new strain of the disease circulating in the country, which shows potential for easier human-to-human transmission.
Understanding Mpox
Mpox, formerly known as monkeypox, was first identified in 1958 during outbreaks in monkeys. Human cases were initially limited to central and West Africa through close contact with infected animals. However, in 2022, the virus was reported to spread through sexual contact, leading to outbreaks in over 70 countries worldwide.
Mpox belongs to the same viral family as smallpox but causes milder symptoms like fever, chills, and body aches. Severe cases can result in lesions on various body parts.
The Renaming of Monkeypox to Mpox
The World Health Organization decided to rename monkeypox as Mpox in late 2022 to address concerns of discriminatory and racist implications. The move aimed to eliminate stigmatization associated with the old name following the global spread of the disease.
WHO’s recommendation to change the name was driven by requests from various individuals and countries to avoid offensive language in disease nomenclature. While the transition to the new name is ongoing, Mpox is now the preferred term over monkeypox.
The Current Situation in Africa
Mpox cases have surged across Africa, with the Africa CDC reporting outbreaks in at least 13 countries. Compared to the same period last year, there has been a 160% increase in cases and a 19% rise in deaths. A new, more virulent form of Mpox has emerged in a Congolese mining town, posing a significant threat with higher mortality rates and enhanced transmissibility.
Health authorities in multiple East African countries have also identified Mpox outbreaks linked to the epidemic in Congo, raising concerns about further regional and global spread.
Responding to the Emergency
WHO’s emergency declaration aims to mobilize resources and international support to combat the Mpox crisis in Africa. The agency has released funds to aid the response efforts but requires additional financial backing to effectively tackle the outbreak.
Vaccination campaigns, especially targeting high-risk populations, are crucial in containing the disease. Congo is in talks with donors for vaccine donations, while WHO emphasizes the need for swift action and adequate funding to curb the spread of Mpox.
