Mpox, previously known as monkeypox, has been declared a global health emergency for the second time since 2022. It’s spreading rapidly in Africa and some cases have been found in other countries as well. Here are 6 things to know about it.
Mpox is a viral infection and is known to affect both humans and animals. It causes a pox-like disease including a rash with raised bumps and skin blisters. It is usually not life-threatening but can also be fatal in rare cases.
According to WHO, mpox has viral-like symptoms including fever, chills, exhaustion, headache, etc, and can be spread through close contact such as touching and kissing. It can also spread through contaminated items like clothing and needles.
The World Health Organization (WHO) issued its highest level alert for the viral disease on August 14, declaring it a public health emergency of international concern (PHEIC).
More than 17,000 cases and 500 deaths have been recorded in Africa so far this year, already exceeding the cumulative figure of 2023. Cases have been found in more than 13 African countries.
There are several variants of mpox. Some are mild while others cause severe symptoms. The ongoing spread is caused by different variants in different countries.
There is no confirmed vaccine for mpox yet but a smallpox vaccine called TPOXX is being studied for its treatment.
The US Food and Drug Administration has also allowed the use of smallpox vaccine JYNNEOS for severe mpox cases in patients aged 18 and above.
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