Mpox is Back: What to Know and Do

Mpox, formerly known as monkeypox, has resurfaced in the news with a new outbreak causing concern worldwide. Here’s what you need to know about this viral infection, the current situation, and how to protect yourself.

What’s New About the 2024 Mpox Outbreak?

The latest outbreak of mpox is driven by a new strain of the virus, Clade 1b, which has led to a significant increase in cases. The World Health Organization (WHO) declared a second global health emergency in August 2024 due to this strain’s rapid spread. Over 15,600 cases and 500 deaths have been reported, primarily in the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC). New cases have emerged in countries not previously affected, such as Burundi, Kenya, Rwanda, and Uganda, with cases now appearing in Sweden and Thailand.

Understanding Mpox

1. What is Mpox and How Does It Spread?

Mpox is a viral infection caused by the same family of viruses as smallpox. It is common in certain animals in central and western Africa, such as squirrels and rats. Humans can become infected through contact with these animals or from person-to-person contact. It spreads through close physical contact, including sexual contact.

2. What Are the Symptoms of Mpox?

Mpox symptoms begin with flu-like signs such as fever, headache, and enlarged lymph nodes. The hallmark of the disease is a rash that progresses from flat spots to fluid-filled bumps and then to pus-filled blisters, which eventually scab over and heal. The illness is generally mild but can lead to severe complications like pneumonia, vision loss, and sepsis.

3. What Is Your Risk of Getting Mpox?

Risk factors include:

• Close Contact: Exposure to infected animals or people.
• Environmental Exposure: Living in or visiting areas where the virus is endemic.
• Sexual Activity: Increased risk for men who have sex with men or those with multiple sexual partners.
• Health Conditions: Pregnancy, young age, weakened immune system, or eczema can increase the severity of the disease.

Why Is the New Outbreak Worrisome?

The new Clade 1b strain is more deadly and spreads more rapidly than previous strains. The outbreak’s impact is particularly severe in resource-poor countries where children and teens are disproportionately affected. The current situation is exacerbated by limited access to healthcare and vaccines in these regions.

Vaccines and Treatments

1. Vaccines

• Jynneos: Approved for preventing both mpox and smallpox, requiring two doses four weeks apart.
• ACAM2000: Approved for smallpox and effective against mpox; used as a second-choice option due to potential side effects.

Vaccine access is limited in resource-poor countries, and vaccine hesitancy in richer countries like the US has hindered outbreak control.

2. Treatments

Tecovirimat, an antiviral drug approved for smallpox, is being studied for mpox. While it did not significantly reduce symptom duration, it did show a lower-than-expected death rate in recent studies. However, its effectiveness remains unclear.

Preventing the Spread

If diagnosed with mpox, you should:

• Isolate: Avoid close contact with others until lesions have healed.
• Wear a Mask: Use a medical mask around others; those visiting should wear masks too.
• Maintain Distance: Stay several feet away from others.
• Practice Hygiene: Clean surfaces, avoid sharing utensils and bedding, and use separate facilities if possible.
• Ventilation: Increase room ventilation with open windows or HEPA filters.
• Avoid Animals: Limit contact with pets or other animals to prevent further spread.

The Bottom Line

While mpox is a significant concern, it is less likely to become a pandemic compared to COVID-19 due to its transmission method, which primarily requires direct contact. Public health efforts are focused on controlling the outbreak through international cooperation, vaccination, and education, especially in affected and at-risk regions.

Keeping updated on guidelines and taking recommended precautions can help manage and mitigate the spread of mpox.