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Congo Faces Setback in Mpox Response Amid Rebel Advances

March 12, 2025, 2:40 pm

The ongoing conflict in eastern Congo, exacerbated by the advancing M23 rebel group backed by Rwanda, has severely disrupted the country’s mpox response. Health facilities in conflict zones are under attack, vaccines and medical supplies are inaccessible, and thousands of patients have fled, leaving the region’s fight against mpox increasingly difficult. With already strained resources due to other health crises, such as cholera and measles, the situation is dire, and the risk of further mpox outbreaks remains high.

Congo’s ongoing battle against mpox, a viral disease that has been wreaking havoc in several African countries, has encountered a major setback due to the worsening security situation in the eastern regions of the country. The region, which had previously been at the forefront of Congo’s efforts to tackle the outbreak, is now facing insurmountable obstacles due to the escalating conflict between Congolese troops and the M23 rebel group, which is reportedly backed by Rwanda. As the rebels advance in the area, hospitals and treatment centers have been targeted, and health workers find themselves struggling to continue essential medical services.

The Growing Crisis in Eastern Congo

The situation in the east of the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) has taken a grim turn with the intensification of fighting between the government and the M23 rebel group. Once considered a hotspot for mpox cases in the country, eastern Congo has now become a conflict zone where the priorities of health and security have clashed. The M23 rebels have made significant advances in recent months, taking control of key towns and regions that were crucial for the delivery of healthcare and other vital services.

These areas, particularly in South Kivu and North Kivu provinces, had already been dealing with a mounting health crisis before the resurgence of conflict. Hospitals in these provinces had seen a surge in mpox cases, and medical personnel were battling to provide care while trying to limit the spread of the disease. However, with the escalation of violence, many of these hospitals have either been destroyed, shut down, or are operating at minimal capacity due to the lack of resources and staff.

The Mpox Outbreak and Its Impacts

Mpox, a viral disease closely related to smallpox, had already been a growing concern in Africa, with cases spiking across several countries. In Congo, the outbreak had already caused significant alarm in 2024, with the total number of cases soaring to 16,255 by the end of the year, as reported by the Africa Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). By the time the first signs of the mpox crisis emerged in the eastern regions, health workers were already grappling with the complexities of managing a viral outbreak, with limited resources at their disposal.

As the health system was stretched thin, the situation worsened with the ongoing violence in the region. Thousands of patients, many of whom were already suffering from mpox, fled from their homes and hospitals in fear of the advancing rebels. Health officials and local workers reported that over 600 mpox patients had fled hospitals in various conflict zones across eastern Congo.

In Miti Murhesa, one of the hardest-hit health zones, the number of reported mpox cases had already surpassed 4,700 by the end of 2024. Despite the efforts of healthcare providers, many hospitals were forced to scale down operations as M23 forces moved deeper into key territories such as Goma and Bukavu. This is where the situation became even more dire. Patients had no choice but to either remain in danger and risk being caught in the crossfire or flee, often abandoning the medical treatment they so desperately needed.

Dr. Serge Munyahu Cikuru, the medical officer in charge of Miti Murhesa health zone, described the growing sense of disaster that has followed the rebels’ advances. “The situation has been very difficult. Insecurity has disrupted everything,” he said. “Our fear is an increase in the number of cases due to the current situation. The shortage of medicines is a major concern.”

Medical Shortages and Access to Vaccines

In the face of mounting challenges, the response to the mpox crisis in Congo has been severely hampered by a shortage of medical supplies, including vaccines and essential medicines. Although the country had initially seen an increase in vaccination coverage in other regions, the conflict zones have been virtually cut off from supplies due to disrupted transportation and blocked access.

Miti Murhesa’s treatment center, one of the few remaining functional hospitals in the area, is running low on supplies. Mubake Buroko Patrick, an mpox patient currently receiving treatment at the facility, described how the war complicated access to medicines. “The war has complicated our access to medicines,” he said. “I’m feeling a little better, but the treatment needs to be improved.” With each passing day, the situation at the treatment centers becomes more desperate, as healthcare workers struggle to make do with limited resources.

A significant challenge for the health authorities has been the difficulty of reaching the conflict zones with life-saving supplies. With international flights grounded and access routes to the eastern DRC blocked, health organizations have found it increasingly difficult to transport vital medical aid. The Africa CDC’s mpox incident manager, Dr. Ngashi Ngongo, confirmed that while there had been some progress in other areas of Congo, the situation in the east remains unresolved. In response to the mounting crisis, the Africa CDC has been negotiating for a humanitarian corridor to ensure the safe passage of medical supplies into the conflict zones.

The Search for a Solution Amidst Conflict

In response to the severe deterioration of the situation, there have been calls for a coordinated international effort to address the mpox outbreak and provide humanitarian aid to the region. Dr. Ngongo has indicated that negotiations are underway to secure a temporary suspension of hostilities in order to allow for the movement of essential supplies and personnel into the affected areas. The establishment of a humanitarian corridor would require both sides of the conflict to agree to a ceasefire, at least temporarily, to allow for the safe passage of aid workers and medical goods.

However, the likelihood of such a ceasefire remains uncertain as the political and military situation continues to evolve. With the ongoing presence of M23 rebels, backed by Rwanda, and the Congolese military’s efforts to maintain control, any agreement on a humanitarian corridor may take weeks or even months to secure. In the meantime, health workers in the region continue to face immense challenges in treating mpox and preventing further spread.

The Broader Health Crisis in Congo

The mpox crisis is just one of many public health challenges facing Congo. In addition to mpox, the eastern region of the country has been battling outbreaks of cholera, measles, and other infectious diseases. Mysterious outbreaks have also recently been reported in the northwestern part of the country, further complicating the public health response. The ongoing conflict has strained the country’s already fragile health infrastructure, making it nearly impossible for health authorities to adequately respond to all outbreaks.

In addition to the logistical and security challenges, the lack of widespread surveillance and reporting has led to gaps in data and a failure to fully track the progression of diseases. The Africa CDC reported that fewer cases are being reported in the conflict zones, even though health workers believe the situation is worsening. This discrepancy has made it even more difficult to track the scope of the outbreak and respond in a timely manner.

The Way Forward

As the situation in eastern Congo continues to deteriorate, it is crucial that international organizations, governments, and humanitarian groups come together to provide much-needed support to the region. The crisis in Congo highlights the importance of global cooperation in the face of complex health emergencies, particularly when political and security issues are involved. To mitigate the spread of mpox and other diseases, it is essential that resources be allocated to the conflict zones, and health workers must be given the protection and support they need to continue their vital work.

Moving forward, the government of Congo must prioritize the strengthening of its healthcare infrastructure, particularly in conflict-prone areas, to ensure that it can respond more effectively to future outbreaks. More investment is needed in training healthcare workers, improving surveillance systems, and ensuring that essential medicines and vaccines can reach even the most remote and dangerous parts of the country.

The situation in eastern Congo remains a pressing issue that requires immediate international attention. The global community must act now to prevent further suffering and loss of life in this already fragile region.

Azerbaijan Reports First Mpox Case, Patient Isolated in Baku

January 18, 2025, 4:20 pm

Azerbaijan has its first case of Mpox confirmed by the country’s Ministry of Health and Management Union of Medical Territorial Units, TABIB. Azerbaijani health authorities have isolated and are currently treating a 22-year-old citizen in a Baku hospital.

Patient Information and Condition

The patient had returned from a foreign tourist trip from January 2 to January 11. After some days of return, he reported to the medical facilities in Baku with signs and symptoms that included weakness, fever, a skin rash, swollen lymph nodes, and muscular pain. Authorities have not said where the patient traveled recently.

Family members who have been in close contact with the patient are now under home observation. The health department confirmed that none of them are showing any symptoms of pox yet.

What Is Mpox?

Mpox was formerly known as the monkeypox. It is a viral disease spread by very close contact. It usually presents as a flu-like infection with pus-filled lesions. While the majority of the infection cases are moderate, some infections can become severe, and could potentially cause death.

The World Health Organization (WHO) classified pox as a global public health emergency in August after the Democratic Republic of Congo outbreak. It had already spread to neighboring countries and further abroad, thus creating concern about the transmission of the disease.

Precautionary Measures in Azerbaijan

Azerbaijani health authorities are monitoring the situation closely and implementing measures that are necessary to avoid further spread. Public awareness campaigns and precautionary protocols are expected to follow.

This case reminds us of the need for vigilance and quick response to emerging health threats. Travelers are encouraged to be informed about symptoms and take preventive measures to ensure their safety.

This development undoubtedly calls for strong global health measures to effectively stop the spread of such infectious diseases as pox. Meanwhile, as Azerbaijan diligently goes about containing this particular case, global public health monitoring and response units actively continue to assess the evolving situation.

Government Issues Advisory to States and UTs to Prevent Mpox Spread

September 26, 2024, 7:34 pm

Health Secretary Apurva Chandra has issued a crucial advisory to all States and Union Territories (UTs) in India, urging the implementation of essential public health measures to prevent and minimize the spread of Mpox, previously known as monkeypox. This advisory underscores the necessity of raising public awareness regarding the disease, its modes of transmission, and the importance of timely reporting.

Key Public Health Measures Highlighted

The advisory emphasizes the need for states and UTs to undertake comprehensive activities aimed at educating communities about Mpox, including its symptoms and preventive measures. Key recommendations include:

Dos:

Increase Public Awareness: Engage communities to disseminate information on Mpox symptoms, transmission methods, and the significance of timely reporting.
Isolate Suspected Cases: Immediate isolation of any suspected Mpox cases, accompanied by stringent infection prevention protocols.
Set Up Isolation Facilities: Ensure hospitals are equipped with adequate isolation facilities for both suspected and confirmed cases, staffed by trained personnel.
Symptomatic Treatment: Follow current treatment guidelines focusing on symptomatic management.
Send Samples for Testing: Collect and send samples from patients with suspected Mpox symptoms to designated laboratories. Positive cases should be sent to ICMR-NIV for genome sequencing to identify the Mpox clade.
Strengthen Diagnostic Capabilities: Utilize ICMR-approved laboratories and PCR kits for early detection and containment of the virus.
Monitor Public Health Infrastructure: Senior health officials are advised to routinely assess public health preparedness at state and district levels.

Don’ts:

Avoid Panic: Prevent mass panic by ensuring clear public communication regarding preventive measures.
Do Not Delay Reporting: Timely reporting of suspected cases is essential to prevent further spread.
Avoid Unnecessary Crowding: Only admit symptomatic cases or those needing isolation to healthcare facilities to avoid overwhelming the system.
Do Not Overlook Mild Cases: All suspected cases, regardless of severity, should be tested and isolated as needed to curb unnoticed transmission.

The health ministry reassured the public that robust testing capabilities are in place, with 36 ICMR-supported labs nationwide and approved PCR kits available for early diagnosis.

Experts: Everything you should know about Mpox

September 24, 2024, 7:45 pm

India has reported its first case with the new Monkeypox (Mpox) strain from Kerala. At least 32 Mpox cases and one death since 2022 when the infection was first detected in the country.

World Health Organization (WHO) declared monkeypox as a public health emergency of international concern (PHEIC) in July 2022 and subsequently revoked the same in May 2023. Globally, since 2022, WHO has reported 99,176 cases and 208 deaths due to monkeypox from 116 countries

How it spread

It spreads to humans primarily through close contact with infected animals, particularly rodents or primates. Here are the main modes of transmission:

Animal to Human: This can occur through bites, direct contact with the blood or bodily fluids of infected animals, or handling raw meat from an infected animal.
Human to Human: The virus can spread through respiratory droplets during prolonged face-to-face contact, as well as through direct contact with bodily fluids or skin lesions of an infected person.
Contaminated Objects: Touching items contaminated with the virus, such as bedding or clothing, can also lead to infection.

Yes, mpox is considered a communicable disease. It can spread from person to person through close contact, respiratory droplets, and contact with bodily fluids or lesions of an infected individual. This means that it can be transmitted between people, making it important to take precautions to limit its spread, especially during outbreaks. Said Dr Vibhu Kawatra Pediatric pulmonologist & Allergy specialist, Vibhu Nursing Home and Rainbow Hospital

Mpox and COVID-19 differ in their modes of transmission :

Mpox:

Primarily spreads through close contact with infected animals or humans.

Can be transmitted through respiratory droplets, but typically requires prolonged face-to-face contact.

Also spreads through direct contact with lesions, bodily fluids, or contaminated objects.

COVID-19:

Spreads mainly through respiratory droplets when an infected person coughs, sneezes, talks, or breathes.

Can also be transmitted via aerosols in enclosed spaces and through contact with contaminated surfaces.

India’s response to COVID-19 highlighted the importance of rapid mobilization, mass vaccination drives, and strengthening public health infrastructure. For MPox, a similar but more focused approach is needed. Swift containment, widespread education on transmission, and vaccination for at-risk groups are critical. Early detection and clear communication are key to preventing escalation, as was seen with COVID-19. While MPox doesn’t pose the same widespread risk, preparedness and proactive strategies are essential to prevent outbreaks. Vaccine development is underway, with clinical trials in progress.

Unlike COVID-19, which spreads primarily through aerosol droplets, MPox is mainly transmitted through direct contact. This highlights the importance of strict adherence to contact precautions, including maintaining isolation for suspected cases to prevent further transmission. Said Dr. Ankita Baidya, Consultant- Infectious Disease, Manipal Hospital, Dwarka, New Delhi.

Mpox the epidemic

Mpox has seen localized outbreaks, but it has not demonstrated the same level of widespread transmission as COVID-19.

Measures that should be taken by the Government

Governments can take several measures to prevent the spread of mpox, including:

Public Awareness Campaigns
Surveillance and Reporting
Vaccination
Isolation and Quarantine like Covid 19

Individuals can take several precautions to help prevent the spread of mpox

Avoid Close Contact: Limit physical contact with individuals who are infected or showing symptoms, such as rashes or sores.
Practice Good Hygiene:

Wash hands frequently with soap and water or use hand sanitizer, especially after touching potentially contaminated surfaces or materials. Avoid touching your face, especially your eyes, nose, and mouth.

Use Personal Protective Equipment (PPE): If with a patient of mpox or in a hospital, wear masks, gloves, and gowns as needed.
Avoid Handling Animals: Steer clear of wild animals and ensure that any pets are not in contact with infected animals.
Isolate If Sick: If you exhibit symptoms of mpox, such as fever or rash, stay home and seek medical advice to prevent spreading the virus.
Vaccination: If and when vaccines are available, get vaccinated.
Clean and Disinfect: Regularly clean and disinfect surfaces and items that may have come into contact with infected individuals or animals.

Mpox Infection Confirmed in Kerala’s Malappuram; Patient Under Treatment

September 18, 2024, 6:40 pm

A 38-year-old man in Kerala’s Malappuram has tested positive for Mpox, health officials confirmed on Wednesday. The patient, who had recently returned from Dubai, showed symptoms of the disease and was admitted to the Government Medical College hospital in Malappuram. His test samples confirmed the Mpox infection.

Kerala Health Minister Veena George stated that the man was isolated at home upon his return and took necessary precautionary measures.

Mpox, a viral illness similar to smallpox, presents with symptoms such as skin rashes, fever, and flu-like manifestations. It primarily spreads through close skin-to-skin contact and, while often self-limiting, can be fatal in certain cases.

Kerala has remained vigilant for Mpox cases since August, following the World Health Organization’s declaration of a Public Health Emergency of International Concern. The state had reported similar cases in 2022. Health authorities continue to monitor the situation closely to prevent further spread.

Suspected Mpox Case Reported In Kerala: Man With Recent Travel History Shows Symptoms

September 18, 2024, 3:08 pm

A suspected case of monkeypox has been reported in Kerala’s Malappuram district after a man, who recently returned from abroad, began showing symptoms of the disease. The man was initially admitted to a private hospital but was later transferred to the state-run Manjeri Medical College when doctors suspected monkeypox. His samples have been sent to Kozhikode Medical College for testing, and the results are awaited to confirm the strain.

If confirmed, this will be the second monkeypox case in the country. Earlier this week, a 26-year-old man in Haryana, who recently traveled from a country experiencing an outbreak, tested positive for the infection. He has been isolated in a facility, and his condition is stable. The patient has been confirmed to have the Clade II strain of the monkeypox virus.

The Centre has issued an advisory to all states and Union territories, urging them to screen and test suspected Mpox cases within the community and identify isolation facilities in hospitals for both suspected and confirmed patients. In a letter to the states, Union Health Secretary Apurva Chandra emphasized the importance of preventing panic. “While all States are requested to undertake appropriate activities to make communities aware about the disease, its mode of spread, need for timely reporting and preventive measures, it is crucial that any undue panic amongst the masses is prevented,” the advisory stated.

The World Health Organization (WHO) has declared Mpox a public health emergency and has prequalified the MVA-BN vaccine, developed by Bavarian Nordic A/S, as the first approved vaccine against monkeypox. “The prequalification approval is expected to facilitate timely and increased access to this vital product in communities with urgent need, to reduce transmission and help contain the outbreak,” the WHO said in an official statement.

There are two distinct strains of the virus—Clade I and Clade II. Clade I has been responsible for the recent surge in cases in Central and Eastern African countries, which WHO has categorized as a public health emergency. However, Clade II, which has been linked to the earlier 30 cases reported in India since July 2022, is not part of the current global health emergency. The Union Health Ministry confirmed that the recent cases are isolated and not linked to the global outbreak of Clade I. “This case is an isolated case, similar to the earlier 30 cases reported in India from July 2022 onwards, and is not a part of the current public health emergency (reported by WHO) which is regarding Clade I of Mpox,” the ministry stated.

Suspected Mpox Case Reported In India, Patient’s Condition Stable

September 8, 2024, 4:48 pm

A young male patient who recently returned from a country experiencing ongoing Mpox (monkeypox) transmission has been identified as a suspected case, according to the Union health ministry on Friday. The patient is currently isolated in a designated hospital and is reported to be in stable condition.

The health ministry has confirmed that samples have been taken and are being tested to determine if the patient has contracted Mpox.

“Samples from the patient are being tested to confirm the presence of Mpox. The case is being managed in line with established protocols, and contact tracing is ongoing to identify potential sources and assess the impact within the country,” stated the ministry.

The government has assured the public that the situation is under control, emphasizing that this development aligns with previous risk assessments conducted by the National Centre for Disease Control (NCDC).

“There is no cause of any undue concern,” the ministry noted. “The country is fully prepared to deal with such isolated travel-related cases and has robust measures in place to manage and mitigate any potential risk.”

This suspected Mpox case in India emerged three weeks after the World Health Organization (WHO) declared outbreaks in 12 African countries a global emergency.

Meanwhile, the Africa Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (Africa CDC) and the WHO launched a continent-wide response plan to combat the Mpox outbreak on Friday. This six-month plan, with an estimated budget of nearly $600 million, will focus on surveillance, laboratory testing, and community engagement, according to Africa CDC director-general Dr. Jean Kaseya.

On Thursday, Congo received its first batch of 100,000 JYNNEOS vaccine doses, donated by the European Union through HERA, the EU’s health emergency agency.

These vaccines are considered crucial for protecting health workers and vulnerable populations. However, the doses received represent only a small portion of the 3 million vaccines needed to control the outbreak in Congo, which remains the epicenter of the global health crisis.

Dr. Kaseya confirmed that the initial vaccine rollout will prioritize adults who have had close contact with infected individuals, as well as sex workers. However, the exact start date for the vaccination campaign is still uncertain. The European Medicines Agency is currently evaluating data to potentially allow the vaccine’s administration to children aged 12 to 17, with a decision expected by the end of the month.

Pakistan Reports 5th Confirmed Mpox Case, Another Suspected In Karachi

September 1, 2024, 9:59 am

Pakistan’s tally of mpox cases has increased to five, with the latest case being confirmed in an air passenger at Peshawar airport, health officials reported on Saturday. Dr. Irshad Ali, Director of Public Health in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, stated that airport medical personnel identified two travelers returning from Jeddah who were displaying symptoms consistent with mpox on Thursday. Out of the two, a 51-year-old man from Orakzai was confirmed to have the virus. The patient, currently in stable condition, has been transferred to Police and Services Hospital Peshawar for treatment.

Health Authorities on High Alert

“We are closely monitoring the situation and have implemented all necessary measures to control the spread,” Dr. Irshad assured the public, emphasizing the government’s proactive approach to managing the outbreak.

Suspected Mpox Case in Karachi

Meanwhile, in Karachi, a 32-year-old individual has been admitted to a designated hospital after showing symptoms consistent with mpox, including a maculopapular rash across his body. The patient had recently traveled from Jeddah to Karachi, raising concerns of a potential new case. A spokesperson from the Karachi health department stated, “We are treating this case with the utmost seriousness and are prepared for all possible outcomes.”

No Local Transmission Detected Yet

Despite the rise in cases, officials have confirmed that no locally transmitted cases have been recorded so far. The authorities are focused on preventing the spread of the virus within the country.

Precautionary Measures and Screening

In response to the growing number of cases, Pakistan has implemented stringent screening protocols at airports, especially for travelers returning from regions with reported mpox cases. Laboratories across all provinces and the federal capital have been equipped for diagnosis, ensuring that any new cases are swiftly identified and managed.

Earlier Cases and Government Response

The first reported case of mpox in Pakistan came from Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK) on August 19, involving a 47-year-old resident who had recently returned from Jeddah. Before this, three cases were reported from Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province. All the patients affected by mpox had recently returned from abroad, prompting the government to enhance monitoring of travelers from Africa, America, and the Gulf countries.

Global Concern Over Mpox

Mpox, previously known as monkeypox, is a viral disease that spreads through close contact. The World Health Organization (WHO) declared the recent outbreak a public health emergency of international concern on August 14 after identifying a new variant of the virus.

Pakistan’s health authorities are on high alert, working diligently to contain the virus and protect the population from further spread. With comprehensive screening and monitoring systems in place, the government remains committed to managing the outbreak effectively.

MPox Outbreak Spread: WHO Urges More Research to Investigate

August 28, 2024, 3:29 am

On August 14, the World Health Organization (WHO) declared an international emergency due to a surge in mpox cases, particularly the Clade 1b strain, in the Democratic Republic of Congo and neighboring regions. This decision highlights the growing concern over the outbreak’s spread.

On Tuesday, the WHO provided an update on the transmission of mpox, noting that while droplets from an infected person contribute minimally to its spread, physical contact remains the primary mode of transmission. The organization emphasized that further research is necessary to fully understand how the outbreak is propagating.

According to the WHO’s website, mpox primarily spreads through close physical contact with an infected individual. This includes direct skin-to-skin contact, such as touching or sexual activity, as well as mouth-to-mouth or mouth-to-skin contact, like kissing. Additionally, being face-to-face with someone who has mpox, which can involve breathing near them, may also facilitate the spread of infectious respiratory particles.

WHO spokeswoman Margaret Harris explained that although talking closely to someone with mpox could potentially spread the virus through respiratory droplets, this is considered a minor transmission route compared to direct physical contact. She noted that the predominant method of transmission is through direct skin contact, not long-distance airborne particles.

The WHO is calling for more research to clarify the transmission dynamics of mpox. In the meantime, the organization recommends that individuals with mpox, their close contacts, and healthcare workers wear facemasks to reduce the risk of spreading the virus.

Mpox Strain Clade Ib: Rapid Spread Sparks Global Health Alarm

August 27, 2024, 3:10 pm

A new strain of the mpox virus, known as clade Ib, is evolving at an alarming rate and spreading beyond its origins in the Democratic Republic of Congo. This development has intensified concerns among scientists and health officials, highlighting the challenges faced in tracking and managing the virus.

Global Concern

Mpox, which causes flu-like symptoms and pus-filled lesions, can be fatal. Historically a public health issue in parts of Africa, the virus gained global attention in 2022. Despite the WHO declaring a global health emergency and later ending it, clade Ib—a mutated version of the endemic clade I—is now drawing renewed concern. This year, Congo has reported over 18,000 suspected cases and 615 deaths related to mpox, with 222 confirmed cases of clade Ib across four African countries, and isolated cases in Sweden and Thailand linked to travel.

Challenges in Tracking and Understanding

Scientists express frustration over the limited understanding of the virus’s behavior and transmission dynamics. Dr. Dimie Ogoina, chair of the WHO’s mpox emergency committee, emphasized the need for better outbreak understanding to effectively manage transmission and disease severity. Unlike previous strains, clade Ib has rapidly evolved to sustain human-to-human transmission within a year, compared to the five years it took for clade IIb to do so during the 2022 outbreak.

Rapid Mutation and Transmission

Clade Ib’s genetic sequencing reveals a mutation known as APOBEC3, which suggests the virus is adapting quickly to human hosts. This accelerated evolution complicates response efforts, as the virus has shifted from primarily animal-to-human transmission to being largely sexually transmitted. The strain has contributed to infection clusters among children in Burundi and in displaced populations in eastern Congo, where overcrowded conditions exacerbate spread.

Need for Improved Resources and Research

There is an urgent need for further research and better resources to combat the outbreak. Scientists in Africa report shortages of essential chemicals and equipment necessary for diagnostic tests and planning vaccination strategies. Dr. Emmanuel Nakoune of the Institut Pasteur stressed that these resources are critical for effectively tracking and responding to deadly outbreaks.

The rapid evolution and spread of clade Ib underscore the pressing need for enhanced global cooperation and support to address the mpox crisis effectively.

AIIMS Issues 10 guidelines for managing suspected monkeypox cases

August 20, 2024, 6:50 pm

In light of the Monkeypox (Mpox) outbreak, the All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS) in New Delhi has issued detailed guidelines for handling suspected cases. This step follows a directive from the Centre to enhance airport surveillance and detect potential Monkeypox cases.
According to a notification from AIIMS, the institute has established a standard operating procedure (SOP) for managing suspected Monkeypox patients in its emergency department. The World Health Organisation recently declared Mpox a global health emergency, emphasizing that while it is serious, it is not as novel as Covid-19, as the virus’s characteristics and control measures are already known.

Here are the key points from the AIIMS guidelines:

Patient Assessment: Patients presenting with fever, rash, or a history of contact with confirmed Monkeypox cases should be flagged for immediate assessment.

Symptom Identification: Medical staff are advised to recognize key symptoms, including fever, headache, muscle aches, back pain, swollen lymph nodes, chills, exhaustion, and characteristic skin lesions.

Isolation Protocol: Suspected Monkeypox patients should be placed in a designated isolation area to minimize contact with other patients and staff.

Isolation Beds: AIIMS has designated beds AB-7 numbered 33, 34, 35, and 36 specifically for isolating Monkeypox patients.

Treatment and Allocation: These isolation beds will be allocated based on recommendations from the emergency chief medical officer and will be managed by the medicine department.

IDSP Notification: The Integrated Disease Surveillance Programme (IDSP) should be notified at 8745011784 when a suspected Monkeypox case is identified. The IDSP team must receive the patient’s details, clinical history, and contact information.

Referral to Safdarjung Hospital: Suspected Monkeypox patients should be referred to Safdarjung Hospital for further evaluation and treatment, as it has been designated for managing Monkeypox cases.

Ambulance Coordination: AIIMS has designated a dedicated ambulance for transferring patients to Safdarjung Hospital. Emergency staff must inform the ambulance coordinator at 8929683898 to arrange patient transfer.

Infection Control: All interactions with suspected Monkeypox patients must adhere to strict infection control measures. Healthcare staff are required to use personal protective equipment (PPE) and maintain accurate documentation of patient details, symptoms, and the referral process.

Documentation: Detailed records of patients’ details, symptoms, and the referral process must be kept meticulously as part of the infection control protocol.

These guidelines aim to ensure effective management and containment of Monkeypox while safeguarding patients and healthcare workers.

WHO: Mpox Is Not the New COVID; Global Spread Can Be Controlled

August 20, 2024, 6:37 pm

The World Health Organization (WHO) has emphasized that Mpox, despite its increasing spread, is not comparable to COVID-19, and global efforts can successfully control the outbreak. Speaking at a media briefing on Tuesday, WHO Regional Director for Europe, Hans Kluge, urged for decisive international action to manage and eliminate mpox, cautioning that the world’s response will be a crucial test for future public health strategies.

“We can and must tackle mpox together,” Kluge stated. “The way we respond now and in the years to come will be a critical test for Europe and the world,” he added, stressing the need for robust systems to control and eliminate the virus.

Mpox, a viral infection that leads to pus-filled lesions and flu-like symptoms, is typically mild but can be fatal. Global concern has grown around the clade 1b variant, which spreads more easily through routine close contact. This variant was recently confirmed in Sweden and linked to a growing outbreak in Africa.

Kluge pointed out that the focus on the more severe clade 1 strain provides an opportunity to strengthen public health measures against the less severe clade 2 variety. He noted that approximately 100 new cases of the clade 2 strain are being reported monthly in the European region.

The briefing comes shortly after the WHO declared mpox outbreaks in Africa a global emergency. On Monday, Congo’s Health Minister Roger Kamba announced that the country would receive its first vaccine doses from the US next week to combat the outbreak. Mpox cases have been confirmed in children and adults across more than a dozen African countries, with a new variant of the virus emerging. However, vaccine availability remains limited on the continent.

Congo, which accounts for the majority of mpox cases worldwide, urgently needs around 3 million vaccine doses. The United States and Japan have offered to donate vaccines, although details regarding the number of doses and delivery timeline from Japan remain unclear.

The WHO has reported over 17,000 mpox cases and more than 500 deaths globally this year, with over 96% of cases and deaths occurring in Congo. Children under 15 represent more than 70% of the cases and 85% of the deaths in the country, which has long struggled with disease outbreaks due to its vast geography and inadequate infrastructure.