A dangerous new strain of the mpox virus is rapidly spreading along the eastern border of the Democratic Republic of Congo, the World Health Organization (WHO) reports.
This strain, initially spread through sexual contact, now appears capable of transmission through close skin-to-skin contact, affecting schoolchildren, healthcare workers, and entire families.
In South Africa, the outbreak has caused three deaths, leading to heightened traveler screenings at borders.
Virologist Cheryl Walter highlights the virus’s history, symptoms, and the impact of recent mutations.
Mpox symptoms start with fatigue, fever, headache, and a rash that progresses to fluid-filled blisters, which can be spread through shared items like towels.
Severe cases may require antiviral treatment.
Genetic analysis reveals that mpox began spreading from Nigeria around 2016 and has now reached 116 countries, with 97,745 cases and 203 deaths reported.
The WHO declared mpox a public health emergency in July 2022.
Most cases involve the less severe clade II variants, but recent mutations have introduced two new sub-clades (clade Ib and IIb), raising concerns about increased transmissibility.
Mpox, formerly known as monkeypox, was first identified in humans in the Democratic Republic of Congo in the 1970s, although it was initially thought to infect only animals.
It is related to pox viruses like cowpox and smallpox but was renamed to reduce stigma and reflect its evolution.
Mpox clusters into two genetic branches: clade I, with a higher fatality rate (up to 10%) found mainly in the Democratic Republic of Congo, and clade II, with a lower fatality rate (1%) across Western Africa.
Both are spread through close physical contact.
High-risk groups, including sex workers and men who have sex with men, are particularly affected.
Testing is advised for anyone with symptoms or close contact with a confirmed case.
To curb the spread, enhanced communication, testing, and protection for at-risk groups are essential.
Research into vaccines and treatments is ongoing, while improved surveillance is crucial to manage the virus and prevent new mutations.
