The World Health Organization (WHO) announced a public health emergency of international concern this Wednesday due to the spread of a new variant of monkeypox, known as mpox, in Africa. This marks the second time the organization has activated its highest level of alert for this disease and the eighth instance in the history of the International Health Regulations.
The alert was issued following the confirmed rapid spread of a new clade of mpox in eastern Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) and its detection in neighboring countries. "The situation is very concerning, and a coordinated international response is essential to stop these outbreaks and save lives," stated Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, WHO Director-General, during a press conference.
The spread of an endemic strain, known as Clade I, began in the DRC; however, a new variant, Clade Ib, appears to spread more easily through routine close contact, including sexual contact. Dimie Ogoina, Chair of the WHO Emergency Committee, noted that the disease is affecting vulnerable populations such as children and pregnant women, and highlighted the potential for greater international spread.
The virus has already resulted in 15,000 cases and 461 deaths this year, representing a 160% increase in infections compared to the previous year, according to WHO statistics. Most cases are reported in the DRC, although the virus is spreading to countries like Uganda, Kenya, and Rwanda.
The current clade appears to be more lethal than previous ones, with an approximate mortality rate of 3% among positive cases in Africa, a rate that could be higher due to insufficient diagnosis and limited healthcare capabilities, warns the organization.
In response to the emergency, the WHO is in contact with vaccine manufacturers and countries with stockpiles, coordinating efforts to tackle the health crisis.
Understanding the Global Health Emergency Over the New Mpox Variant
Here are some frequently asked questions about the recent WHO declaration of a global health emergency due to the new mpox variant.
What is the new variant of mpox?
The new variant, known as Clade Ib, appears to spread more easily through routine close contact, including sexual contact.
Why did the WHO declare a global health emergency?
The WHO declared a global health emergency due to the rapid spread of the new mpox variant in eastern Democratic Republic of Congo and its detection in neighboring countries.
Which countries are affected by the new mpox variant?
The new variant has been primarily reported in the Democratic Republic of Congo, with spread to Uganda, Kenya, and Rwanda.