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The World Health Organization (WHO) has declared mpox, formerly known as monkeypox, a public health emergency of international concern. This decision was taken in response to the unusual increase in cases in Africa, with more than 15,600 reported so far in 2024, including 537 deaths, a dramatic increase compared to the 1,145 cases and seven deaths recorded in 2023. The Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) accounts for 90% of these cases, and a new variant of the virus has been detected, which has also affected other African countries such as Rwanda and Uganda.
MPOX is a viral disease caused by the monkeypox virus, a species of the Orthopoxvirus genus. The virus causes symptoms such as fever, headache, muscle aches, back pain, swollen lymph nodes, and a characteristic rash that usually begins on the face, hands, and feet and can spread to other areas of the body, including mucous membranes and eyes. Symptoms usually last between two and four weeks and, in most cases, disappear without treatment. However, in severe cases, the disease can cause serious complications, such as skin infections, pneumonia, and vision loss, and can be fatal, especially in newborns, children, and people with weakened immune systems.
Transmission of the virus can occur through direct contact with infected animals, such as rodents and primates, or through physical contact with infected people, especially through contaminated bodily fluids or materials, such as clothing or utensils. Although it is not clear whether asymptomatic people can transmit the virus, it is known that the risk of infection is higher during the symptomatic period.
WHO has highlighted the need for a tailored, global response to stop the spread of mpox, with a focus on community engagement. The organization is working closely with governments and health organizations in affected countries to strengthen surveillance, improve diagnostic capabilities and provide appropriate medical care. In addition, efforts are underway to ensure equitable access to vaccines, diagnostics and treatments worldwide. Currently, two WHO-approved vaccines are available to combat the virus, and antiviral treatments, such as tecovirimat, are being explored for severe cases.
The MPOX outbreak in Africa is of particular concern due to the emergence of a new variant of the virus and the rapid spread of the disease to multiple countries. WHO has mobilized teams of experts to support national authorities in disease surveillance, training of health personnel, and implementing control measures, such as contact tracing and risk awareness among communities.
In summary, the declaration of MPOX as a public health emergency of international concern underscores the gravity of the situation and the need for coordinated global action to stop the spread of the disease, protect vulnerable populations, and prevent the crisis from escalating further.
Sources: https://news.un.org/es/story/2024/08/1532031
