A World Health Organization (WHO) official has clarified that mpox, previously known as monkeypox, should not be viewed as the “new COVID-19.” During a recent media briefing, Hans Kluge, the WHO’s regional director for Europe, emphasized that health authorities have established effective strategies to manage the virus’s transmission, distinguishing it from the airborne nature of COVID-19.
Key Insights from WHO Officials
Kluge stated, “We can and must tackle mpox together,” urging for global cooperation to control and potentially eliminate the virus. He warned against entering another cycle of “panic and neglect,” highlighting the importance of proactive measures in response to the current outbreak, particularly concerning the newly identified Clade 1b variant, which appears to spread more easily through close contact
The recent outbreak has prompted the WHO to declare mpox a public health emergency of international concern, especially following the confirmation of the Clade 1b variant in Sweden, linked to an ongoing outbreak in Africa. This variant has raised alarms due to its potential for increased transmissibility and severity
Understanding Monkeypox Strains
Mpox is categorized into two main clades: Clade 1 and Clade 2. Clade 1 is generally associated with more severe symptoms, including high fever, severe headaches, and extensive skin lesions, while Clade 2 tends to present milder symptoms. Currently, Europe is reporting around 100 new cases of the Clade 2 strain each month.
The WHO has called for enhanced surveillance and public health strategies to tackle both clades effectively. Kluge noted that the focus on the more severe Clade 1 strain could help improve responses to the less severe Clade 2 strain, which has been circulating globally since 2022
Monkeypox Current Situation and Recommendations
As of now, mpox primarily spreads through close physical contact, including sexual contact, but there is no evidence to suggest it transmits easily through the air, unlike COVID-19. WHO spokesperson Tarik Jasarevic stated that while health authorities should remain vigilant for new, more transmissible strains, there are currently no recommendations for the public to wear masks.
The Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) has reported over 15,600 mpox cases and approximately 540 deaths this year alone, underscoring the urgent need for international assistance in vaccine distribution and public health measures. Kluge emphasized the necessity for European countries to support Africa in obtaining vaccines to combat the outbreak effectively.
Key Points About Different Monkeypox Strains
- WHO official Hans Kluge stated that mpox is not the new COVID-19, emphasizing the need to tackle the virus together.
- Two main clades of mpox exist: Clade 1 and Clade 2. Clade 1b has caused global concern due to its seemingly easier transmission through routine close contact.
- Clade 1 usually causes severe symptoms like high fever, severe headaches, muscle aches, and enlarged lymph nodes. The skin lesions are generally extensive and can lead to scarring.
- Clade 2 is known for milder symptoms compared to Clade 1.
- The new Clade 1b strain has caused a significant surge in cases in the Democratic Republic of Congo. Other affected African countries are also experiencing rising numbers.
- Clade 1b has reached countries outside Africa as well, with cases confirmed in Sweden and suspected cases reported in Pakistan.
- Focusing on the new Clade 1b strain provides an opportunity to improve attention on the less severe Clade 2 strain by offering better public health advice and enhancing surveillance efforts.
Symptoms and Transmission
- Common symptoms of monkeypox include a rash lasting for two to four weeks, which may be started with or followed by fever, headache, muscle aches, back pain, low energy and swollen lymph nodes.
- The rash looks like blisters and can affect the face, palms of the hands, soles of the feet, groin, genital and/or anal regions, mouth, throat or the eyes.
- Monkeypox is primarily transmitted from person to person through direct physical contact with an infected individual, including through touch, kissing, or sexual activity.
- It can also spread through contact with contaminated materials, such as clothing or linens, and from infected animals to humans via bites, scratches, or during activities like hunting and cooking.
In conclusion, while monkeypox is a significant public health concern, Kluge reassured that with coordinated global efforts and established public health strategies, it is manageable and not comparable to the COVID-19 pandemic. The WHO continues to advocate for equitable access to vaccines and comprehensive health measures to control the spread of mpox worldwide 1 2.