On August 14th, the World Health Organization (WHO) declared Mpox as a Public Health Emergency of International Concern (PHEIC). PHEIC is the highest level of warning issued by WHO. It is defined as “an extraordinary event which constitutes a public health risk to other States through the international spread of disease and potentially requires a coordinated international response.”
Current Situation Of Mpox
Currently, Mpox cases are being reported in 34 African countries. The Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) is experiencing a severe outbreak, with over 14,000 cases and 524 deaths recorded since the beginning of 2024. The Clade IB variant, which spreads through person-to-person contact, including sexual contact or contaminated objects, has been identified and is contributing to this outbreak. So far, 96% of the cases originate from Congo. Mpox cases have increased by 160%, and deaths have risen by 19%. Countries like Burundi, Kenya, Rwanda, and Uganda are also affected by Mpox.
Why is Mpox Now a Major Concern?
A new clade variant in Africa is spreading dangerously. This variant causes lesions on the genitals, making the infection harder to detect and thus more likely to be unknowingly transmitted to others. Previously, Mpox lesions were primarily seen on the chest, hands, and feet.
WHO Director-General Dr. Tedros stated on X (formerly Twitter), “The emergence of a new #Mpox clade, its rapid spread in eastern #DRC, and the reporting of cases in several neighboring countries are deeply concerning. On top of other Mpox clades’ outbreaks in DRC and other African nations, it is clear that a coordinated international response is required to halt these outbreaks and save lives.”
How Does Mpox Spread?
Mpox can spread easily from an infected person through touching, kissing, sexual contact, or coughing. People with multiple sexual partners are at a higher risk. It can also spread through contaminated items like clothing, linens, or equipment in tattoo parlors. Additionally, it can be transmitted through animal bites, scratches, or contact with an infected person’s skin or meat, according to WHO.
Symptoms of Mpox
Symptoms of Mpox appear within 21 days of infection. Common symptoms include sore throat, rashes, fever, headache, muscle aches, back pain, weakness, and swollen lymph nodes. The initial signs of Mpox are fever, muscle aches, and sore throat. A distinctive feature of Mpox is a rash that first appears as a flat lesion, then develops into blisters that may itch. Children, pregnant women, and those with weakened immune systems are at higher risk of complications.
Complications Associated with Mpox
Complications of Mpox can include pneumonia, vision loss due to corneal infection, difficulty swallowing, dehydration or malnutrition caused by vomiting and diarrhea, sepsis, brain swelling (encephalitis), and infections of the rectum (prostatitis), genitals (balanitis), urinary passage (urethritis), or even death.
Mpox Situation In India
The first case of Mpox in India was reported in 2022. It involved a 35-year-old man who returned from the Middle East, confirmed by WHO at the time. As of July 2023, 27 confirmed cases of Mpox have been reported in India, with 12 cases in Kerala and 15 in Delhi.
Prevention of Mpox
To prevent Mpox, practice good hygiene, such as washing hands frequently with soap and water. Avoid contact with individuals who have rashes, fever, or swollen lymph nodes. If caring for an infected person, use personal protective equipment and avoid animals showing similar symptoms. Maintain cleanliness and stay vigilant.
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