Health Alert: Mpox

Mpox throughout History

Initially identified in laboratory monkeys in Denmark in 1958, the first human cases of mpox were diagnosed in the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) in 1970. Since then, the frequency and severity of mpox outbreaks have increased significantly, possibly due to the end of smallpox vaccinations in 1980. This left populations worldwide vulnerable to infection, especially in regions with inadequate healthcare infrastructure.

Between 2022 and 2023, a global outbreak of over 90 000 human mpox cases was declared a public health emergency of international concern (PHEIC) by the World Health Organisation (WHO), propelling mpox onto the global stage and necessitating robust public health responses.

What steps are being taken to combat mpox?

Efforts to combat mpox outbreaks have historically focused on containment within endemic regions, primarily Central and Western Africa. However, limited resources and infrastructure in affected areas have hindered progress.

In August 2024, the WHO again declared mpox a global health emergency, following a surge in cases across Africa. In response, the WHO is collaborating with health authorities to track the virus’s spread, prevent further infections, and protect vulnerable populations. These efforts include developing treatment protocols, enhancing surveillance systems, supporting research for vaccines and therapeutics, and providing financial and technical assistance to affected countries.

Recognising the global threat posed by mpox, the WHO has added the disease to its list of “priority pathogens” that could cause a pandemic, emphasising the need for international cooperation in combating this disease.

Minimise your risk of catching mpox

Mpox is primarily spread through close contact with an infected person, including via kissing, talking, and sexual contact. Here are some effective ways to reduce your risk:

• Avoid close contact: Maintain a safe distance from people who are sick.
• Avoid sharing personal items: Don’t share or handle clothes, bedding or other materials that have been in contact with an infected animal or person.
• Frequent handwashing: Use soap and water or alcohol-based hand sanitiser.
• Get vaccinated: While no vaccine has been developed specifically against mpox, smallpox vaccines can be effective in preventing infection.

What are the symptoms of mpox?

Other symptoms include:

• Sore throat
• Back pain
• Progressive rash – flat lesions become pus-filled bumps, then scab over and fall off

What to do if you think you have mpox

Mpox symptoms usually appear 5 to 21 days after exposure. If you develop a rash or any mpox symptoms, even if you don’t know anyone with mpox, seek medical treatment immediately. Early diagnosis and treatment can help manage symptoms and prevent the spread of the virus.

You can spread mpox while you have symptoms, so it’s important to:

• Tell anyone you have been close to recently and avoid physical contact
• Isolate at home until all scabs fall off and a new layer of skin forms
• Cover lesions and wear a well-fitting mask when around other people

Did you know?

Two Clades: There are two main types of mpox virus, called clades I and II. Clade I is generally more severe and has a higher fatality rate, while clade II is typically milder.

Lookalike Infections: Mpox can be difficult to distinguish from chickenpox, measles, bacterial skin infections, scabies, herpes, syphilis, other sexually transmissible infections (STIs) due. Laboratory testing is essential for diagnosis and early treatment.

Not an STI: Although it can be spread through sexual contact, mpox is not considered an STI.

As the world grapples with this evolving health threat, international collaboration, surveillance, and vaccination efforts are essential to contain outbreaks and protect public health.