Two countries outside of Africa have reported cases of mpox following the World Health Organization’s declaration of a public health emergency regarding the virus. The new strain, known as clade 1, has been spreading in African countries since 2022. The Democratic Republic of Congo experienced the biggest outbreak of the disease ever recorded, with tens of thousands infected. The Africa CDC reported that mpox has been detected in at least 13 African countries, with a 160 percent increase in cases and 19 percent increase in deaths compared to the previous year.
The new strain of mpox has now been reported in Pakistan and Sweden. In Pakistan, the Ministry of National Health Services confirmed the first case of the virus, while in Sweden, the virus was reported as the clade 1 strain from Africa. The European CDC raised its risk alert level to “moderate” and urged countries to maintain awareness among travelers from affected areas. Clade 1 is known to cause severe infections and spread easily through close contact, including sexual contact.
The virus primarily affects humans and animals, causing symptoms such as fever, chills, body aches, and the development of skin lesions. The virus enters the body through broken skin or the airways, spreading through the blood and causing flu-like symptoms. While the virus does not have direct effects on the immune system, severe cases can lead to death. The Africa CDC chief of staff stated that symptoms typically last two to four weeks before the individual fully recovers.
Mpox is predominantly spread through close contact with an infected person or animal. Human-to-human transmission can occur through skin lesions, skin-to-skin contact, or close talking. The virus can also be spread through contaminated objects that enter the body through broken skin or the respiratory tract. Human-to-animal transmission usually occurs through bites, scratches, or contact with wounds on an infected animal.
The disease presents with flu-like symptoms and pus-filled lesions, with some people experiencing a more severe illness with hundreds of lesions. Children, individuals with untreated HIV, or weakened immune systems are at a higher risk for severe symptoms. Treatment for mpox is currently unavailable, but vaccination has been effective in reducing the risk. While the vaccine is not widely accessible in African countries, efforts are being made to secure doses and protect vulnerable populations.
To protect oneself from mpox, individuals are advised to practice good personal hygiene, wash hands regularly, avoid contact with sick individuals, and seek medical attention if symptoms arise. Vaccination is effective in preventing infection if available in the region. Scientists believe that with resources and quick identification of new outbreaks, transmissions can be contained relatively quickly. The focus for action remains in central Africa, where the epidemic is occurring and spreading, urging prompt action and preparation to control further spread.
