In recent weeks, the mpox virus has spread internationally, with new cases reported outside Africa in Sweden, Thailand, Philippines, and Pakistan. Fourteen African nations have also confirmed infections, predominantly linked to a new and potentially deadlier strain called Clade 1. The World Health Organization has deemed this outbreak a “public health emergency of international concern.”
The mpox virus is currently experiencing a notable spread, particularly a new strain that has emerged in different regions worldwide. In recent weeks, several countries outside Africa—namely Sweden, Thailand, Philippines, and Pakistan—have reported confirmed cases of mpox. In Africa, fourteen countries have documented infections, with the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) suffering the most severe outbreak to date. The virus, originally traced to the DRC, has been circulating since 2022, with a significant uptick in cases attributed to a variant designated as Clade 1 and a newer Clade 1b variant. Meanwhile, a less severe Clade 2 variant is also present, which had previously caused widespread cases until the World Health Organization (WHO) declared its outbreak over in May 2023, although sporadic cases are still being recorded. The WHO has categorized this situation as a “public health emergency of international concern,” indicative of the global implications of mpox’s spread.
Mpox, formerly known as monkeypox, is a viral disease caused by the mpox virus, which has two primary clades—Clade 1 and Clade 2. The current outbreak is predominantly driven by Clade 1, which is associated with a higher fatality rate and has spread through skin-to-skin contact. The first occurrences of mpox in a widespread context began in Africa, particularly the DRC, where the virus has been endemic. The recent notification of cases in Europe and Asia raises alarms about potential international transmission. The WHO’s alerts concerning mpox signify the seriousness with which health authorities regard its current and evolving state.
In summary, the mpox virus is currently on the rise globally, with several countries outside Africa reporting cases for the first time. The central concern lies in the new, more virulent strains surfacing—particularly Clade 1 and Clade 1b. As containment measures are discussed, the emphasis remains on vigilant monitoring and public health preparedness to manage this evolving public health challenge.
Original Source: www.aljazeera.com
