The World Health Organization (WHO) has once again declared mpox (formerly known as monkeypox) a Public Health Emergency of International Concern (PHEIC) due to a rapid surge in cases across Africa and the emergence of a new, more deadly variant. As of August 18, 2024, over 18,737 cases have been reported in 13 African countries, including 3,101 confirmed cases, 15,636 suspected cases, and 541 deaths.The Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) remains the epicenter of the outbreak, reporting approximately 16,800 suspected or confirmed cases and over 500 deaths since the beginning of 2024. The new variant, identified as ‘Clade 1b’ or ‘Congo 1’, is considered more contagious and deadly than previous strains.In a concerning development, the first case of this new, more dangerous mpox variant outside of Africa has been detected in Sweden. This has heightened fears about the potential for wider international spread, with the European Centre for Disease Prevention and Control (ECDC) warning that more imported cases are likely in the coming days and weeks.Global health authorities are mobilizing to address this evolving threat. The WHO has initiated an emergency listing process for mpox vaccines to accelerate access in low-income countries. However, there is a significant vaccine shortage in Africa, with the continent needing an estimated 10 million doses but currently having access to only about 400,000.Despite the alarming spread, health experts emphasize that mpox primarily spreads through close contact. The WHO has advised against imposing travel restrictions or closing borders, instead calling for enhanced surveillance, testing, and treatment of infected individuals. Countries are being urged to strengthen their preparedness, improve their surveillance systems, and ensure early diagnosis of cases.As the situation continues to evolve, international cooperation and resource mobilization will be crucial in containing this outbreak and preventing its further spread beyond African borders.
Key points
- WHO has declared mpox a global health emergency due to rapid spread in Africa and detection of a new, deadlier variant.
- Over 18,737 mpox cases reported in Africa, with 541 deaths.
- New deadly variant ‘Clade 1b’ detected in Sweden, raising concerns about spread to Europe.
- Significant vaccine shortage in Africa, with only 400,000 doses available out of 10 million needed.
Contradictions👾Some sources report slightly different numbers for total cases and deaths, likely due to ongoing updates and reporting delays.
