Mpox emergency
The Mpox epidemic, or “Monkeypox,” represents one of the most recent and troubling global health challenges. Its spread is raising international concerns.
At the end of the Angelus prayer on Sunday, August 25, 2024, Pope Francis expressed his solidarity with the people and countries affected by Mpox: « I wish to express my solidarity with the thousands of people affected by Mpox (monkeypox), which is now a global health emergency. I pray for all those infected, especially the people of the Democratic Republic of Congo suffering greatly. I express my sympathy to the local Churches in the countries most affected by this disease and I encourage governments and private industries to share available technology and treatments so that no one lacks adequate medical care.»
From its origins to its spread today
The mpox virus was first identified in the years 58 in a colony of laboratory monkeys, in Denmark. The first reported human case of mpox was in the Democratic Republic of the Congo in 1970. Human infections have been caused by small animals, such as monkeys and rodents, transmitting the virus to humans. In fact, humans can contract the virus through direct contact with infected animals or by eating contaminated meat. The virus now spreads easily from person to person and seems to mutate more rapidly.
Until 2022, cases of mpox outside Africa were rare, however, cases are now being reported worldwide, including countries in Europe, North America, and Asia. This increase has been attributed mainly to increased global mobility.
Symptoms and complications
Common symptoms include fever, headache, muscle pain and enlarged lymph nodes. Subsequently, a rash appears that can develop into fluid-filled blisters, similar to those seen in smallpox. The disease can last two to four weeks and, symptoms usually resolve on their own after about 14 to 21 days.
The disease can become more severe and potentially fatal, especially among young children, pregnant women, and immuno deficient persons, such as those with poorly controlled HIV.
In some circumstances, serious complications may occur, such as secondary infections, sepsis or encephalitis.
Response and fight against Mpox
On August 14, 2024, World Health Organization (WHO) Director-General Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus has determined that « the upsurge of mpox in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) and a growing number of African countries, and even beyond the continent, constitutes a public health emergency of international concern. (…) It is clear that a coordinated international response is needed to stop these outbreaks and save lives. »
WHO, anticipating an immediate need of $15 million to support surveillance, preparedness and response activities, has released $1.45 million from its Emergency Reserve Fund. WHO is working with countries and vaccine manufacturers to facilitate equitable access to vaccines, treatments, diagnostics and other tools.
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