What is Mpox and Why Is It in the News?
The World Health Organization (WHO) has declared Mpox, previously known as Monkeypox, a major global health emergency. This decision was made on August 14, 2024, following a rise in cases in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) and neighboring African countries.
The WHO Director-General, Dr. Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, made this announcement after a meeting with experts who reviewed data from affected regions. They concluded that Mpox could spread further within Africa and possibly to other parts of the world.
Previously, Mpox was declared a health emergency in July 2022 due to a widespread outbreak, but that status ended in May 2023 as cases declined. Now, a new strain of Mpox has been found in over 100 confirmed cases across Burundi, Kenya, Rwanda, and Uganda. The number of cases in the DRC has surged, with over 15,600 cases and 537 deaths reported so far in 2024.
Dr. Tedros expressed concern about the new strain’s rapid spread and the need for an international response to manage the outbreaks and save lives.
What Is Mpox?
Mpox was first found in humans in 1970 in the DRC and is common in Central and West Africa. There are vaccines available to help prevent the disease.
What Are the Symptoms of Mpox?
Early symptoms of Mpox are similar to the flu and include:
High fever
Headache
Muscle and back aches
Swollen glands
Chills
Fatigue
A rash typically starts on the face and spreads to other parts of the body. It starts as raised spots that turn into fluid-filled blisters. Symptoms usually clear up in 2-4 weeks.
How Is Mpox Treated?
Most cases of Mpox are mild and do not require specific treatment. The smallpox vaccine, which is effective against Mpox, can be used before and after exposure to prevent the disease.
How Is Mpox Diagnosed?
A doctor can diagnose Mpox through a medical assessment and lab tests, as its symptoms can resemble other infections.
How Does Mpox Spread?
Mpox spreads through close contact with infected people, their body fluids, or contaminated materials. It is not necessarily a sexually transmitted infection but can spread through close skin-to-skin contact.
What Should You Do If You Think You Have Mpox?
If you have a rash with blisters and have been in close contact with someone with Mpox or have traveled to Central or West Africa recently, contact your GP or call 111. Stay home and avoid close contact with others until you receive medical advice.
Will There Be Another Lockdown in 2024?
Currently, a widespread lockdown due to Mpox seems unlikely. As of July 31, 2024, only a small number of cases have been reported in the UK, mostly among men who have sex with men, but the virus can affect anyone.
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