The World Health Organization (WHO) has declared a global health emergency due to the rapid spread of mpox, a viral disease that has been reported in dozens of African countries and has also had ties to the UK in the past. This is the second time in three years that the WHO has designated an mpox epidemic as a global emergency, with the previous declaration made in July 2022.
Mpox, also known as monkeypox, is a rare viral disease that is caused by the mpox virus. The virus is typically transmitted through close physical contact with an infected person’s blisters or scabs, as well as through touching contaminated clothing, bedding, or towels. The virus can also be spread through respiratory droplets when an infected person coughs or sneezes.
Symptoms of mpox typically begin within 5-21 days of infection and can include a high temperature, headache, muscle aches, backache, swollen glands, shivering, exhaustion, and joint pain. A rash often appears 1-5 days after the first symptoms, usually starting on the face and spreading to other parts of the body, including the mouth, genitals, and anus.
The WHO has emphasized that mpox is not the new COVID-19, and that authorities know how to control its spread. “We can and must tackle mpox together,” said Hans Kluge, WHO regional director for Europe, in a UN media briefing. “So will we choose to put the systems in place to control and eliminate mpox globally? Or will we enter another cycle of panic and neglect? How we respond now and in the years to come will prove a critical test for Europe and the world.”
To protect yourself from mpox, the WHO recommends the following:
- Clean your hands regularly with soap and water, or alcohol-based hand sanitizer, especially after contact with someone who may have mpox.
- Know the symptoms of mpox, especially if you’re sexually active, and talk to your partners about their sexual health.
- Swap contact details with new partners to ensure you can reach out to each other if needed.
- Take a break from all intimate contact (including kissing) if you develop symptoms until you’ve seen a doctor and had the all-clear.
- Use condoms for 12 weeks as a precaution if you’re recovering from an mpox infection to prevent re-infection.
It’s also important to note that mpox is not a sexually transmitted infection (STI) in the classical sense, but rather a viral disease that can be spread through close physical contact. However, the WHO has emphasized that sexual contact is a common mode of transmission, especially among men who have sex with men.
The WHO has also emphasized the importance of early detection and reporting of mpox cases, as well as the need for healthcare workers to be aware of the symptoms and take appropriate precautions to prevent transmission.
Prevention and Control Measures
To prevent the spread of mpox, the WHO recommends the following measures:
- Implementing contact tracing and surveillance to identify and isolate cases
- Providing personal protective equipment (PPE) to healthcare workers
- Conducting regular cleaning and disinfection of surfaces and equipment
- Implementing infection control measures in healthcare settings
- Providing education and awareness to the public on the symptoms and transmission of mpox
Vaccination and Treatment
There is currently no licensed vaccine available for mpox, but several vaccines are being developed and tested. The WHO is working with vaccine manufacturers to accelerate the development and distribution of vaccines.
Treatment for mpox typically involves managing symptoms and supporting the immune system. Antiviral medications may be prescribed to reduce the severity of symptoms and prevent complications.
Global Response
The WHO has activated its Incident Management System to coordinate the global response to the mpox outbreak. The organization is working closely with countries, international partners, and experts to monitor the situation, provide guidance and support, and develop a comprehensive response plan.
The global health community is also working together to share information, coordinate efforts, and develop a unified response to the mpox outbreak.
Conclusion
The declaration of a global health emergency is a clear indication of the severity of the mpox outbreak and the need for a coordinated global response. By taking simple precautions, staying informed, and working together, we can control the spread of mpox and prevent further outbreaks.
It’s essential to remember that mpox is a preventable disease, and with the right measures in place, we can protect ourselves and others from this viral disease.