The World Organisation for Animal Health (WOAH) has announced that it is closely monitoring the rapid spread of the new variant of monkeypox (mpox) among humans due to the zoonotic nature of the virus.
In this regard, it has noted that the current increase in the new variant of mpox (clade Ib) in humans in an ever-increasing number of countries in Africa, along with sporadic cases in Asia and Europe, has led to its classification as a public health emergency of international concern by the World Health Organization (WHO).
First discovered in 1958, mpox is caused by an orthopoxvirus known as monkeypox virus (MPXV). Endemic to West and Central Africa, the virus is found both in animals (rodents, non-human primates, and other mammals) and in humans.
The disease can cause clinical signs such as skin lesions, scabs, fever, and swollen lymph nodes in both animals and humans. In some cases, it does not cause any apparent clinical signs. The virus can transmit from animals to humans, as well as from humans to animals.
However, WOAH has stated that, as of August 23, 2024, it has not received any confirmed reports of mpox clade Ib in animals. “Although WOAH members are required to officially report diseases included in the list, and MPXV is not a listed disease, they are encouraged to inform WOAH about the identification of MPXV in animals,” they note.
“WOAH is responding to this challenge by actively encouraging its members to report confirmed cases of mpox in animals, as well as to adopt appropriate risk mitigation measures,” it has stated.
In this sense, to reduce the risk of transmission from person to animal, WOAH has a guideline for various risk groups. Additionally, to raise awareness on the issue, it also provides a set of online resources that include prevention and diagnostic strategies for animals.
Furthermore, WOAH has reminded that it is in constant consultation with its reference centers and expert groups on mpox and emerging diseases, while collaborating with partners such as WHO to adopt a ‘One Health’ approach.
CALL TO MONITOR MONKEYPOX IN ANIMALS
Given all this, WOAH has urged its members to consider mpox as a differential diagnosis in animals presenting clinical signs compatible with the disease and that have been previously exposed to human cases and to report accordingly.
On the other hand, WOAH has also made a call to the general public to take appropriate hygiene and biosecurity measures, such as washing hands and using personal protective equipment, before and after handling animals from a household with a probable or confirmed human case of mpox.
“Do not approach or touch sick or dead animals found in endemic areas,” they advise, and recommend informing a veterinarian if any pet, domestic animal, or wildlife has been exposed to mpox and shows clinical signs compatible with the disease.
“WOAH is fully committed to supporting its members and other stakeholders in monitoring and mitigating risks associated with mpox. We will continue to work with our networks of reference centers, experts, and partners to adopt a One Health approach and provide updates as more information becomes available,” they conclude.
Emerging Trends in Monkeypox Awareness and Management
The recent escalation of the monkeypox (mpox) outbreak, particularly the clade Ib variant, has shifted global health priorities. With the World Health Organization (WHO) designating it as a Public Health Emergency of International Concern (PHEIC), understanding the implications of its zoonotic nature is crucial. As reported by the World Organisation for Animal Health (WOAH), the transmission dynamics between animals and humans necessitate enhanced surveillance and preventative measures.
One key trend is the increasing emphasis on a ‘One Health’ approach, which integrates human health, animal health, and environmental considerations. This holistic perspective addresses the complexities of zoonotic diseases, promoting collaboration among wildlife services, veterinary agencies, and public health authorities. As the OMSA encourages members to report confirmed mpox cases in animals, awareness of animal health as a crucial link in preventing further human transmission will likely grow.
Moreover, the rise in awareness campaigns and educational resources aimed at both healthcare professionals and the public signifies a shift in proactive health management. The development of risk reduction guidelines specifically for various vulnerable groups indicates a movement towards targeted prevention strategies, enhancing the community’s ability to respond to and mitigate potential outbreaks.
In addition to promoting hygiene practices and biosafety measures, the call for vaccination strategies against mpox may gain traction. As cases continue to rise in various regions, vaccination could play a pivotal role in controlling outbreaks, particularly among high-risk populations and regions with a noted history of the virus.
With the evolving landscape of infectious diseases, continuous sharing of data and research will be vital. It is expected that international health organizations and research institutions will ramp up efforts to study mpox’s epidemiology, transmission pathways, and effective intervention strategies. This collaborative approach might not only bolster defenses against mpox but also prepare the global community for future zoonotic threats.