MPOX (MONKEYPOX)

TAG: GS- 2: HEALTH AND GS- 3: SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY

CONTEXT:  The World Health Organization (WHO) continues to classify mpox as a “Public Health Emergency of International Concern” (PHEIC) amidst ongoing outbreaks, particularly in Africa, and the emergence of clade I mpox cases in other countries like Canada. This high alert underscores the global health threat posed by the disease and the challenges in managing its spread.

EXPLANATION:

About Mpox (monkeypox):

    • It is a viral zoonotic disease caused by the monkeypox virus.
    • The first human case of mpox was recorded in 1970 in the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC).
    • There are two known types (clades) of mpox virus — one that originated in Central Africa (Clade I) and one that originated in West Africa (Clade II).
    • Symptoms: Common symptoms of mpox are a skin rash or mucosal lesions, which can last 2–4 weeks accompanied by fever, headache, muscle aches, back pain, low energy, and swollen lymph nodes.
    • Transmission: Human-to-human transmission of mpox occurs through direct contact with body fluids, lesions, prolonged face-to-face contact, including sexual contact, and indirect contact with contaminated clothing or bedding.
    • Treatment: There are no specific treatments for monkeypox virus infection. Early and supportive care is important to help manage symptoms and avoid further problems.

Current Developments:

Outbreak Scale in Africa:

    • Over 46,000 suspected cases and 1,000 deaths have been reported, predominantly in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC).
    • Children are significantly affected, with a 130% rise in cases among those under 18 in Congo.
    • Children are also at a higher risk of mortality from the more infectious form of mpox first identified in eastern Congo.

First Clade I Mpox Case in Canada:

    • A travel-related case of clade I mpox was confirmed in Manitoba, Canada.
    • The individual contracted the virus in central/eastern Africa and is in isolation.

Vaccine Authorization for Children:

    • WHO approved the first mpox vaccine for children aged 1 year and older, developed by Japanese company KM Biologics.
    • Japan pledged to donate 3 million doses of this vaccine to Congo, though deliveries are yet to be confirmed.
    • Previously, WHO had approved the Bavarian Nordic vaccine for adults, with conditional use for children and pregnant women in emergencies.

Efforts in Vaccination:

    • Approximately 50,000 people in Congo have received the Bavarian Nordic vaccine.
    • The KM Biologics vaccine is expected to address gaps in immunization, particularly for children, one of the most vulnerable groups.

Disease Spread and Response:

    • Cases in Congo’s epicenter are stabilizing, but infections are increasing in neighboring countries like Burundi and Uganda.
    • WHO’s focus remains on resource allocation, vaccine accessibility, and public health awareness.

Implications

    • Global Preparedness: Mpox’s designation as a PHEIC reinforces the importance of surveillance, vaccine distribution, and international cooperation.
    • Vaccination Challenges: Timely vaccine delivery and equitable distribution remain critical, especially in resource-limited settings.
    • Emerging Risks: The spread of clade I mpox highlights the interconnectedness of global health, requiring vigilant monitoring of travel-related cases.

Way Forward

    • Strengthen global and local vaccination efforts, especially targeting high-risk groups like children.
    • Enhance healthcare infrastructure in affected regions to manage cases and reduce mortality.
    • Foster global partnerships for equitable access to medical resources, diagnostics, and vaccines.

 

Source:

https://www.thehindu.com/sci-tech/health/who-says-mpox-continues-to-remain-a-public-health-emergency/article68901702.ece

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