Monkeypox, or mpox, is a viral disease closely related to smallpox. While smallpox has been eradicated globally, mpox has been a public health concern in parts of Africa for decades. The first human case was reported in Congo in 1970, and the country has experienced outbreaks ever since. The World Health Organization (WHO) recently declared mpox a global health emergency, marking the second time in two years. This latest declaration is fueled by a new and more aggressive strain of the virus.
Dr. Raj Kamal Choudhary, a renowned medical expert with extensive experience at the WHO, provides valuable insights into the gravity of the mpox situation. He emphasizes the need for vigilance, particularly in India, as the country experienced mpox cases in 2022. While the situation was effectively managed then, the emergence of a new strain poses a significant challenge.
The current outbreak is more widespread than previous outbreaks in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), where clade I mpox is endemic. The outbreak has spread to neighboring countries, raising concerns about its potential to reach India. Mpox transmission primarily occurs through direct contact with infected skin lesions, bodily fluids, or contaminated materials.
Dr. Choudhary highlights the importance of screening arrivals from affected African countries to India, especially if the outbreak intensifies in Asian regions. He also advocates for a vaccination strategy, recommending two doses of the JYNNEOS vaccine for individuals traveling to affected countries and those considered at high risk.
While mpox shares some symptoms with other infections, such as smallpox, a key differentiator is the presence of lymph node swelling, known as lymphadenopathy. Mpox, unlike smallpox, causes this swelling, often in the neck and armpit regions.
The new strain of mpox has been linked to sexual transmission among men who have sex with men and female sex workers, as well as household transmission and exposure to infected animals. This pattern highlights the vulnerability of specific population groups, including sex workers and children.
Dr. Choudhary emphasizes the importance of readily available Amphotericin B injection for treating mpox patients. The JYNNEOS vaccine, while effective in reducing disease severity and containing spread, remains inaccessible to many due to its high cost.
Dr. Choudhary stresses the need for enhanced international cooperation, drawing parallels with the COVID-19 pandemic. He emphasizes the importance of screening travelers, a critical step that was delayed during the COVID-19 pandemic, resulting in a more widespread outbreak.
Regarding India’s preparedness, Dr. Choudhary expresses confidence in the country’s healthcare system. He cites India’s experience with the WHO’s ring immunisation strategy, a proactive approach that involves screening and vaccinating vulnerable populations around confirmed cases. However, the availability of sufficient vaccine doses remains a concern, necessitating pre-emptive measures.
In conclusion, mpox poses a significant threat to global health. While India has the capacity to manage an outbreak, vigilant monitoring, proactive screening, and effective vaccination strategies are crucial to mitigate the impact of this emerging health challenge.
