As we navigate through 2024, the global health community is grappling with a new challenge: the monkeypox outbreak. This virus, once confined to remote regions of Africa, has now spread to various parts of the world, leading to concerns about its potential to cause a global health emergency. The situation is dire enough that the World Health Organization (WHO) has declared monkeypox a global health emergency, akin to the COVID-19 pandemic that shook the world just a few years ago. But what exactly is monkeypox? How does it spread? And, most importantly, is it deadly? This article aims to provide a comprehensive overview of the 2024 monkeypox outbreak, the strains involved, and the implications for global health.
What is Monkeypox?
Monkeypox is a viral zoonotic disease caused by the monkeypox virus, which is a member of the Orthopoxvirus genus. The virus is related to the smallpox virus but generally causes a less severe illness. The disease was first discovered in 1958 when two outbreaks of a pox-like disease occurred in colonies of monkeys kept for research, hence the name “monkeypox.”
The History and Evolution of the Monkeypox Virus
The first human case of monkeypox was recorded in 1970 in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) during a period of intensified effort to eliminate smallpox. Since then, monkeypox has primarily been reported in Central and West African countries, with occasional outbreaks in other regions. However, the 2024 monkeypox outbreak marks a significant shift, as the virus has spread to countries outside of Africa, leading to widespread concern.
Monkeypox Strains and Their Impact
There are two distinct strains of the monkeypox virus: the West African strain and the Central African (Congo Basin) strain. The Central African strain is known to cause more severe illness and has a higher mortality rate than the West African strain. The ongoing monkeypox outbreak in 2024 has seen cases linked to both strains, with varying degrees of severity.
The 2024 Strain: A Cause for Concern?
Recent studies indicate that the strain involved in the 2024 outbreak may have undergone mutations that could affect its transmissibility and virulence. While the West African strain is typically less severe, the current outbreak has shown a higher rate of complications, leading some experts to believe that the virus may have evolved. This evolution could potentially increase the risk of the virus spreading more widely and causing more severe illness.
How Does Monkeypox Spread?
Monkeypox is primarily spread through close contact with an infected person or animal, or with material contaminated with the virus. The virus can enter the body through broken skin (even if not visible), respiratory tract, or the mucous membranes (eyes, nose, or mouth).
Human-to-Human Transmission
Human-to-human transmission of monkeypox can occur through respiratory droplets during prolonged face-to-face contact, direct contact with bodily fluids, or through contaminated materials, such as bedding. The virus can also be transmitted through close physical contact, including sexual contact. In the 2024 outbreak, there have been reports of clusters of cases linked to social gatherings and communal living spaces, where close contact is more likely.
Animal-to-Human Transmission
Monkeypox can also be transmitted from animals to humans through direct contact with the blood, bodily fluids, or cutaneous or mucosal lesions of infected animals. In Africa, evidence of monkeypox infection has been found in many animals, including squirrels, Gambian pouched rats, dormice, and different species of monkeys. The consumption of undercooked meat and other animal products of infected animals is a possible risk factor.
Is Monkeypox Deadly?
The question of whether monkeypox is deadly depends on several factors, including the strain involved, the individual’s health, and the quality of healthcare available. The Central African strain has a higher fatality rate, ranging from 10% to 11%, while the West African strain has a lower fatality rate of about 1% to 3%. However, the mortality rate can be higher in vulnerable populations, such as children, pregnant women, and individuals with compromised immune systems.
Complications and Long-Term Effects
While many people infected with monkeypox will recover fully, some may experience complications that can be life-threatening. These complications can include secondary infections, bronchopneumonia, sepsis, encephalitis, and infection of the cornea leading to loss of vision. The severity of these complications can vary depending on the strain of the virus and the individual’s health condition.
The Global Health Emergency: Mpox Outbreak 2024
In July 2024, the WHO declared the ongoing mpox outbreak a global health emergency. This decision was made in response to the rapid spread of the virus across multiple continents, the increasing number of cases, and the potential for significant global health and economic impact. The declaration is intended to mobilize international resources, accelerate the development of vaccines and treatments, and implement measures to prevent further spread.
The Role of Vaccines and Treatments
Vaccination against smallpox has been shown to be about 85% effective in preventing monkeypox. However, since the eradication of smallpox, routine vaccination of the general population has been discontinued, which has left younger populations particularly vulnerable to monkeypox. In response to the 2024 outbreak, several countries have begun to stockpile smallpox vaccines and are considering reintroducing vaccination programs, particularly for high-risk groups.
Current Treatment Options
There are currently no specific treatments for monkeypox. However, antiviral drugs such as tecovirimat, cidofovir, and brincidofovir have shown some effectiveness against poxviruses in animal studies, and they are being used under compassionate use protocols during the current outbreak. Supportive care, including hydration, pain management, and treatment of secondary bacterial infections, is crucial for managing symptoms and preventing complications.
Africa’s Struggle with the Mpox Outbreak
While the world focuses on the global spread of monkeypox, it is important not to overlook the ongoing challenges faced by African nations where the virus has been endemic for decades. Countries like the DRC, Nigeria, and the Central African Republic have been dealing with mpox outbreaks for years, often with limited resources and inadequate healthcare infrastructure.
The Impact on Healthcare Systems
The mpox outbreak has placed an enormous strain on already fragile healthcare systems in Africa. Many hospitals are overwhelmed, and there is a shortage of medical supplies and trained personnel. The stigma associated with monkeypox has also deterred people from seeking medical care, leading to delayed diagnoses and treatment.
International Aid and Support
The international community has a critical role to play in supporting African countries in their fight against monkeypox. This includes providing financial assistance, medical supplies, and technical expertise. It is also essential to invest in long-term solutions, such as strengthening healthcare infrastructure and improving access to vaccines and treatments.
The Role of GOVX in the Fight Against Monkeypox
GOVX, a biotechnology company specializing in the development of vaccines and therapies for infectious diseases, has been at the forefront of efforts to combat the monkeypox outbreak. The company has been working on a monkeypox vaccine that is currently in the advanced stages of development. This vaccine, once approved, could be a game-changer in the fight against monkeypox, providing protection to millions of people around the world.
The Future of Monkeypox Prevention and Control
As we move forward, the focus must be on prevention and control. This includes continued surveillance of the virus, rapid response to new outbreaks, and widespread vaccination. Public health education is also crucial in raising awareness about how monkeypox spreads and what can be done to prevent infection.
Conclusion
The monkeypox outbreak of 2024 has highlighted the need for a coordinated global response to emerging infectious diseases. While the situation is serious, with the right measures in place, it is possible to bring the outbreak under control and prevent further spread. By investing in vaccines, treatments, and healthcare infrastructure, we can protect vulnerable populations and prevent future outbreaks.