The World Health Organization has declared the mpox outbreak in Congo a global emergency, emphasizing the seriousness of the symptoms and the urgent need for international intervention.
A Public Health Emergency of International Concern (PHEIC) has been issued by the World Health Organization (WHO), regarding the worrying and ongoing mpox outbreak in not only Democratic Republic of Congo but also neighbouring African countries. This grave declaration, considered as a top-tier health alert globally, highlights concerns over both the severity of this deadly virus and its accompanying symptoms.
The onset of Mpox, a viral disease, is often characterized by aliments such as fever, headaches and muscular discomfort accompanied with enlarged lymph nodes. Nevertheless, the most notable and distressing indications are observed in form of skin rashes and lesions that manifest on various parts of the body- primarily beginning from hands or face region but eventually spreading to torso as well as limbs.
The development of mpox lesions includes multiple stages that start as flat marks and evolve into raised bumps. As the bumps mature, they become filled with either clear or yellow fluid and eventually form a crust. This transformation may take several weeks to complete. The infected person is able to spread the disease from when symptoms first appear until new skin has reformed over their fully healed scabs following crusting-over phase completion.
The virus spreads primarily via sizeable respiratory droplets, bodily fluids and contaminated objects like clothes or bedding. Close contact with a person carrying the disease, particularly when their lesions are open or oozing, poses significant risk for transmission.
The Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) has recorded more than 22,000 suspected mpox cases since the start of January 2023. This potentially fatal virus is responsible for over 1,200 deaths in the region to date. The current outbreak is especially concerning due to its link with Clade I mpox – a variant that can result in heightened levels of severe illness and mortality compared to its counterpart; Clade II. Although endemic within DRC borders historically, there are now confirmed reports indicating cross-border transmission into neighboring countries such as Burundi, Rwanda Uganda and other African nations like Central Africa Republic & The republic Of Congo which poses serious risks globally if left unchecked indefinitely .
Global health authorities have sounded the alarm over the swift surge of the outbreak and its spread across borders, prompting WHO to declare it as a PHEIC. By doing so, they aim to mobilize international attention and resources in managing this crisis through coordinated global efforts.
As a reaction to the spreading of the disease, Maria Van Kerkhove, WHO’s Director in charge of Epidemic and Pandemic Preparedness & Prevention emphasized the significance of comprehending how the virus is transmitted as well as identifying populations that are at risk. She brought attention to how essential it is for medical supplies such as vaccines with limited availability be used strategically so their maximum impact can be reached. Additionally she called on nations that have extra doses to contribute them promptly towards regions experiencing an outbreak.
Van Kerkhove emphasized the importance of comprehending transmission trends and pinpointing high-risk populations as critical measures. This intel will enable us to allocate vaccines in an optimal manner. Additionally, we urge countries with vaccine stockpiles to step forward and assist our endeavors.
