Since August 14, 2024, the Mpox outbreak in Central Africa is considered an international health emergency by the World Health Organization (WHO). The dynamics of this outbreak are different from the pandemic of 2022 when this long-neglected disease was still called “monkeypox.” Professor Antoine Gessain, whose lab at the Institut Pasteur has been studying viruses from this family for many years, explains the stakes.
Is the Mpox virus 1b a more dangerous disease than that of the 2022 pandemic?
Nothing to date indicates that the virus has greater virulence or pathogenicity. There are two phenomena currently occurring in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC). More than three-quarters of the 16,000 suspected cases reported since the beginning of the year in the region are linked to zoonotic transmission (from an infected reservoir animal). However, there is also a local epidemic in the eastern DRC, which is affecting neighboring countries, as people circulate in this densely populated border area (the African Centers for Disease Control mentioned 22,863 suspected cases and 622 deaths on Wednesday, but across the entire continent, Editor’s Note).
Why is there an increase in cases?
For several years, there has been an increase in reported cases in the DRC. This is likely due to a combination of better case detection thanks to improved knowledge of the disease, but also to a real epidemic in the eastern part of the country.
Why are children the main victims?
Typically, the disease is…
Understanding the Mpox Epidemic in Central Africa: Future Trends
As of August 14, 2024, the World Health Organization (WHO) has declared the Mpox epidemic in Central Africa an international public health emergency. This marks a stark contrast to the 2022 pandemic period when the illness, previously known as “monkeypox,” received minimal attention. Professor Antoine Gessain from the Institut Pasteur sheds light on the evolving dynamics of this epidemic and its implications for the future.
Is the New Mpox Strain More Dangerous?
Current data suggests that the new Mpox virus 1b does not exhibit increased virulence compared to the strains circulating during the 2022 pandemic. However, in the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC), the epidemic exhibits two key transmission patterns: zoonotic transmission from infected animal reservoirs, which accounts for a significant proportion of the over 16,000 suspected cases this year, and a localized outbreak affecting densely populated border areas.
Reasons for Rising Case Numbers
The DRC has seen a sustained increase in reported Mpox cases in recent years. This surge is likely due to enhanced case detection methods and greater awareness of the disease, alongside a genuine surge in cases, especially in the eastern regions where local transmission is becoming more prevalent.
Impacts on Vulnerable Populations
Tragically, children are emerging as the primary victims of this epidemic. The reasons for this demographic vulnerability are complex, likely intertwined with both biological susceptibility and socio-economic factors that limit access to healthcare and preventive measures.
Looking Ahead: Epidemiological Implications
As international bodies like the WHO respond to the escalating crisis, future trends may focus on improving surveillance and response strategies in Central Africa. This could include increased funding for research on zoonotic diseases and the implementation of widespread vaccination campaigns in at-risk populations. Furthermore, enhanced collaboration between local health authorities and international organizations is essential to curb the spread of Mpox and protect vulnerable communities effectively.