The World Health Organization (WHO) has declared the ongoing mpox outbreak in parts of Africa as a public health emergency of international concern. The decision comes as the highly contagious disease, formerly known as monkeypox, has claimed at least 450 lives in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) and continues to spread across central and east Africa. The emergence of a new, more virulent strain of the virus has raised alarm among global health experts.

The Mpox Outbreak: A Growing Threat

Mpox, a viral disease similar to smallpox but generally less severe, has been endemic in certain parts of Africa for years. However, the recent outbreak, which began in the DRC, has shown unprecedented levels of contagion and mortality. Since the start of the year, over 13,700 cases have been reported in the DRC alone, with the virus now spreading to neighboring countries including Burundi, the Central African Republic, Kenya, and Rwanda.

The disease is transmitted through close contact, including skin-to-skin contact, respiratory droplets, and even through contact with contaminated materials. Mpox manifests with flu-like symptoms and skin lesions, which can be fatal in severe cases. According to WHO data, about four in 100 cases result in death, highlighting the severity of the outbreak.

Emergence of a New, Virulent Strain

One of the key factors driving the WHO’s emergency declaration is the emergence of a new strain of the virus, known as Clade Ib. This variant has been described by some scientists as the “most dangerous yet,” due to its higher fatality rate and rapid spread. Unlike Clade I, which has been endemic in central Africa for years, Clade Ib is a new and more virulent form that poses a significant threat to public health.

Dr. Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, the Director-General of WHO, expressed deep concern over the potential for the virus to spread further within Africa and beyond. “The potential for further spread within Africa and beyond is very worrying,” he said. “A coordinated international response is essential to stop this outbreak and save lives.”

Global Response and Urgent Action

The declaration of mpox as a public health emergency of international concern is intended to mobilize global resources and focus attention on containing the outbreak. The WHO’s announcement is expected to accelerate research efforts, secure funding, and lead to the introduction of critical international public health measures.

Dr. Josie Golding from the Wellcome Trust described the WHO’s move as a “strong signal” that underscores the gravity of the situation. Similarly, Dr. Boghuma Titanji of Emory University emphasized that the declaration highlights the seriousness of the crisis.

The Africa Centres for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has also declared a public health emergency in response to the outbreak. Jean Kaseya, the head of the organization, warned that the disease could spiral out of control if immediate action is not taken. “We must be proactive and aggressive in our efforts to contain and eliminate this threat,” Kaseya stated.

Lessons from Past Outbreaks

This is not the first time that WHO has declared a public health emergency due to an mpox outbreak. In July 2022, a milder strain of the virus, known as Clade II, spread to nearly 100 countries, including many in Europe and Asia. During that outbreak, more than 87,000 cases and 140 deaths were reported. The outbreak was largely concentrated among men who have sex with men, and it was eventually brought under control through targeted vaccination campaigns.

However, the current situation is different, with a more dangerous variant on the loose and the potential for wider and more devastating impact. The emergence of Clade Ib adds a layer of complexity, with many unknowns that need to be urgently addressed.