Deadly Mpox Variant on the Rise: Sweden and Pakistan Confirm First Cases

Deadly Mpox Variant on the Rise: Sweden and Pakistan Confirm First Cases

Updated: August 16, 2024 1:30 pm

By  M.k.kaqrikalsozhan  Blog  Reporter

The global health landscape is witnessing a resurgence of a deadly variant of Mpox, a virus that has claimed 548 lives in the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) since the beginning of 2024. This dangerous new strain of the virus, which belongs to the Orthopoxvirus genus, has now crossed international borders, with the first cases reported in Sweden and Pakistan. The situation has raised alarms, prompting health authorities and the World Health Organization (WHO) to issue warnings about the potential spread of the virus.

What Is Mpox?

Mpox, formerly known as monkeypox, is an infectious disease caused by the Mpox virus, which is part of the Orthopoxvirus genus. It was first discovered in 1958 when two outbreaks of a pox-like disease occurred in colonies of monkeys kept for research. The first human case was recorded in 1970 in the DRC. Over the decades, the virus has caused sporadic outbreaks, primarily in Central and West Africa.

 Mpox Case Updates: Pakistan and Sweden

The recent developments in Pakistan and Sweden have brought Mpox back into the global spotlight. On Friday, Pakistan confirmed its first Mpox case of 2024. A 34-year-old man, who had recently returned from Saudi Arabia, tested positive for the virus. Health officials are now in the process of identifying and monitoring individuals who were in close contact with the infected man, including fellow passengers on his flight. Since April 2023, Pakistan has reported 11 Mpox cases, with one resulting in death.

In Europe, Sweden has confirmed its first case of the deadly Mpox variant. A person in Stockholm has been diagnosed with the virus, marking the first time this strain has been identified outside the African continent. The WHO has issued a stark warning that more cases are likely to be confirmed in Europe soon, as the virus continues to spread beyond its traditional boundaries.

 The Spread of the New Mpox Variant

The new Mpox variant has shown a disturbing ability to spread across borders. In the DRC, the virus has caused severe outbreaks in refugee camps, where overcrowded and unsanitary conditions have exacerbated its transmission. The virus has also spread to neighbouring countries, including Uganda, Burundi, Rwanda, and Kenya. While South Africa is currently experiencing outbreaks, these are linked to a different strain of the Mpox virus.

The transmission of Mpox occurs primarily through close physical contact with an infected person or animal. The virus can also spread via contaminated materials, such as bedding or clothing. Symptoms of Mpox include fever, muscular aches, and large boil-like skin lesions that can last from two to four weeks. In severe cases, the virus can lead to complications and even death.

 Public Health Response and WHO's Role

The global public health community is on high alert following the WHO's declaration of Mpox as an international "public health emergency." This designation underscores the seriousness of the situation and the need for a coordinated global response. The WHO has been working closely with affected countries to monitor the spread of the virus, provide technical assistance, and support vaccination efforts where available.

Mpox Outbreak in the Democratic Republic of Congo The Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) is currently facing a severe outbreak of mpox, a viral disease caused by a virus of the genus Orthopoxvirus. According to the latest epidemiological report, the country has recorded 15,664 potential cases and 548 deaths since the beginning of 2024. The most affected provinces in the DRC are South Kivu, North Kivu, Tshopo, Equateur, North Ubangi, Tshuapa, Mongala and Sankuru[2]. The government has implemented a response plan structured around three main axes: raising awareness of the virus, developing a national strategic plan for vaccination, and improving disease surveillance at borders and checkpoints. The World Health Organization (WHO) has declared the rapid spread of the new Clade 1b strain in Africa a public health emergency of international concern, the highest alarm it can sound. This strain causes more severe disease than the previous Clade 2b strain, with a higher fatality rate. In response to the outbreak, the US Department of Health has announced it will be donating 50,000 doses of the FDA-approved JYNNEOS vaccine to the DRC[2]. The WHO has recorded more than 14,000 cases and 524 deaths so far this year in the DRC, already exceeding last year's total.The mpox virus is transmitted to humans by infected animals but can also spread from human to human through close physical contact[3]. Symptoms include fever, muscular aches, and large boil-like skin lesions that can last from 2 to 4 weeks. Global Spread and Response The mpox outbreak has not been limited to the DRC. Pakistan has reported its first case of the deadly virus in 2024, involving a 34-year-old man who recently returned from Saudi Arabia. Health officials have started contact tracing and identifying close contacts, including fellow passengers on the man's flight. Sweden has also confirmed its first case of the deadly mpox strain, marking the first diagnosis outside the African continent. The WHO has warned that more cases of this variant will likely be confirmed in Europe soon. The African Union's health watchdog has declared a public health emergency over the growing mpox outbreak, while the WHO has urged countries to strengthen surveillance and provide accurate information to the public.

In Pakistan, health authorities have initiated contact tracing efforts to prevent further spread of the virus. This involves identifying and monitoring individuals who may have been exposed to the infected patient. The country's health infrastructure, already stretched thin by other public health challenges, is now facing the added burden of containing the Mpox virus.

In Sweden, health officials are similarly on high alert. The confirmation of the first Mpox case in Stockholm has prompted the government to take precautionary measures to prevent a wider outbreak. Public health campaigns are being launched to educate the population about the risks associated with Mpox and the importance of seeking medical attention if symptoms arise.

The Global Implications of the Mpox Outbreak

The emergence of a new, deadly variant of Mpox is a stark reminder of the interconnectedness of global health. In an era of rapid international travel, viruses can cross borders with alarming ease. The cases in Pakistan and Sweden highlight the need for vigilant monitoring and swift action to contain outbreaks before they become global health crises.

For the global community, the Mpox outbreak serves as a wake-up call. It underscores the importance of investing in public health infrastructure, particularly in low- and middle-income countries where resources are often limited. The ability to quickly identify, isolate, and treat cases is crucial in preventing the spread of infectious diseases like Mpox.

Preventive Measures and Vaccination

Preventing the spread of Mpox requires a combination of public health measures and individual actions. Good hygiene practices, such as regular handwashing and avoiding contact with sick individuals or animals, can help reduce the risk of infection. Public health authorities are also advising against unnecessary travel to regions where Mpox outbreaks are occurring.

Vaccination is a key tool in the fight against Mpox. While there is no specific vaccine for the Mpox virus, the smallpox vaccine has been shown to be effective in providing protection against Mpox. In countries experiencing outbreaks, vaccination campaigns are being rolled out to protect vulnerable populations, including healthcare workers and those living in high-risk areas.

 The Path Forward

As the world grapples with the rise of a new Mpox variant, the importance of a coordinated global response cannot be overstated. The cases in Pakistan and Sweden are a stark reminder that infectious diseases know no borders. It is crucial for countries to work together, sharing information and resources, to prevent the spread of the virus.

Public health education plays a vital role in this effort. By raising awareness about the risks associated with Mpox and encouraging preventive measures, governments can empower their citizens to take action to protect themselves and their communities. The international community must also continue to support research into new vaccines and treatments for Mpox, ensuring that we are better prepared for future outbreaks.

In the face of this deadly virus, vigilance, cooperation, and swift action are our best defences. As the situation continues to evolve, it is imperative that we remain focused on containing the spread of Mpox and safeguarding global health.

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