In recent times, the world has been alerted to a new health threat that mirrors past epidemics but carries its unique challenges. A severe and highly contagious strain of pox, formerly known as monkeypox, has initiated a troubling spread across continents, reigniting concerns among global health officials. Originating from a significant outbreak in central Africa, this virus has not yet reached the United States, but its potential arrival prompts preparatory actions from health authorities.
Contents
Understanding Mpox
Mpox belongs to the orthopoxvirus family, the same group that includes smallpox. Unlike smallpox, however, mpox has not been eradicated and continues to pose a sporadic threat globally. The virus was first identified in 1958 in monkeys kept for research, giving it its original name. In recent years, to avoid the stigma associated with the name, it has been renamed to ‘mpox.’ It’s important to note that despite its initial discovery in monkeys, the primary risk of transmission is not from these animals.
The disease can be spread from animals to humans and, more concerningly, from human to human. Physical contact with the infected, including through body fluids or contaminated materials, can facilitate the spread. As of 2016, cases of human-to-human transmissions have seen a noticeable increase.
Global Concerns Amidst Outbreaks
The World Health Organization (WHO) recently declared mpox a global health emergency following a surge in cases in the Dominican Republic and several African countries. In 2024 alone, central and eastern Africa have reported over 17,000 infections, with more than 500 fatalities, predominantly in Congo. These numbers show a stark increase from previous years, underscoring the virus’s escalating threat.
Internationally, the response has been swift but strained. The Africa Centres for Disease Control and Prevention has been overwhelmed, necessitating a call for international medical assistance. About 10 million vaccine doses are urgently needed in the affected regions, highlighting a desperate need for support from wealthier nations and pharmaceutical companies.
Mpox’s Status in the United States
While the new strain of mpox has not been detected in the U.S., the country remains on high alert. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has issued a travel notice and health alert for the more potent strain observed in Congo and neighboring countries. Although there are a few cases of a less severe strain reported weekly, the risk of the new strain spreading within the U.S. is currently considered very low.
The 2022 Outbreak and Its Lessons
Reflecting on the 2022 outbreak provides valuable insights. The mpox clade II strain reached the U.S. during the spring of that year, leading to several hundred cases by August. The outbreak was primarily concentrated in major urban centers and coincided with social events, which facilitated its spread. Although the outbreak was declared over by early 2023, it served as a critical learning point for handling such diseases in populous settings.
Transmission, Symptoms, and Treatment
Transmission of mpox is predominantly through close contact with the infected. The symptoms often resemble the flu, including fever, headache, and swollen lymph nodes, and are accompanied by distinctive pus-filled skin lesions. These lesions progress through several stages before healing, and the illness can last from two to four weeks.
Vaccination remains the most effective prevention strategy. The JYNNEOS vaccine, which protects against both clade I and II, has shown high efficacy. However, there are challenges with vaccine uptake, particularly concerning the completion of the two-dose series.
Final Thoughts
As mpox continues to challenge global health responses, the importance of preparedness, timely vaccination, and international cooperation cannot be overstated. While the U.S. may not currently face the brunt of this outbreak, the situation underscores the ever-present need for vigilance in a connected world where diseases know no borders.
