What is the Mpox virus and what are its symptoms? WHO considers it an international health emergency

The World Health Organization (WHO) is considering a major step in its response to the rapidly escalating mpox epidemic in Africa. Dr. Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, WHO Director-General, has suggested that he may convene an expert committee to advise on whether the outbreak should be declared an international public health emergency. The decision comes amid a worrying rise in cases, particularly in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), and the detection of a more dangerous strain in neighboring African countries.

Rise in smallpox cases

Since September last year, the Democratic Republic of Congo has seen a significant increase in the number of cases of mpox. The outbreak has been exacerbated by a strain of the virus recently identified in neighboring countries. The WHO, together with the Africa Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, local authorities and other partners, is stepping up its response to the crisis. However, Dr. Tedros stressed the need for more funding and support to prepare a comprehensive response.

In a statement on social media platform X, Dr. Tedros expressed concern about the growing impact of the epidemic and the need for enhanced measures. He said he was considering convening an International Health Regulations (IHR) Emergency Committee to assess whether the situation warrants the declaration of a Public Health Emergency of International Concern (PHEIC). Such a declaration would represent the highest level of alert for WHO, triggering an international response to the epidemic.

What is Mpox?

Mpox, formerly known as monkeypox, is an infectious disease caused by monkeypox virus. The virus belongs to the genus Orthopoxvirus, which also includes smallpox, cowpox, and cowpox. Mpox was first identified in humans in 1970 in the Democratic Republic of the Congo. The disease is characterized by fever, muscle pain, and skin lesions that resemble large boils. Mpox has two main genetic clades: clade I and clade II. The last global outbreak was caused mainly by clade IIb, but the current surge in Africa involves another strain known as clade Ib.

Transmission and symptoms of Mpox

Mpox can be transmitted to humans through contact with infected animals, contaminated materials, or from person to person through close physical contact. The virus spreads through direct contact with infectious lesions or body fluids, including respiratory droplets from prolonged close contact. Symptoms of Mpox usually appear within a week of exposure and include fever, headache, muscle aches, back pain, low energy, and swollen lymph nodes. A characteristic rash often appears, beginning as flat sores that develop into fluid-filled blisters. As the rash progresses, the lesions dry out, crust over, and eventually fall off. The rash can appear anywhere on the body.

Diagnosis and treatment

Diagnosing mpox can be difficult because the symptoms can mimic those of other infections. Laboratory confirmation is essential, and polymerase chain reaction (PCR) testing is the preferred method. Samples for testing are usually taken from skin lesions or body fluids.

Treatment for mpox focuses on supportive care to control symptoms and prevent complications. In some cases, antiviral medications such as tecovirimat, originally developed for smallpox, are used. Vaccination is also a key preventative measure, especially for people at high risk of infection.

Latest events and answers

The recent increase in mpox cases, particularly in the Democratic Republic of Congo, is alarming. As of July 11, Dr Tedros has reported over 11,000 cases and 445 deaths in the Democratic Republic of Congo, with children particularly affected. In response, the African Union has urgently allocated $10.4 million in COVID-19 funds to support efforts to combat the epidemic. This funding will be used to strengthen monitoring, testing, data collection, case management and vaccine distribution.

In addition to the Democratic Republic of Congo, cases have recently been reported in Burundi, Kenya, and Uganda. The first two cases were detected in the latter country, probably related to the outbreak in the Democratic Republic of Congo.

International Health Regulations and PHEIC
The International Health Regulations (IHR) provide a framework for countries to manage public health emergencies that can transcend borders. Under the IHR, the Director-General of WHO has the authority to declare a PHEIC, which triggers emergency responses by member countries. Since 2009, PHEICs have been declared for H1N1 swine flu, poliovirus, Ebola virus, Zika virus, the new Ebola epidemic, COVID-19 and mpox.