Mpox Epidemic 2023-2024: A Global Health Crisis

2023–2024 Mpox Epidemic Overview: An Urgent Global Health Crisis

The Emergence of a New Variant

The world has been facing an escalating health crisis with the emergence of a new variant of clade I mpox, formerly known as monkeypox. This variant was first identified in Central Africa in September 2023 and has since sparked a devastating epidemic. By August 2024, the outbreak has resulted in over 17,000 cases and 517 fatalities, with the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) bearing the brunt of the impact. As the situation worsens, global health authorities have declared the epidemic a public health emergency of international concern (PHEIC).

The Outbreak’s Origins and Spread

The outbreak traces back to May 2022, with the initial cases prompting the World Health Organization (WHO) to declare a global health emergency. However, the situation took a dire turn in September 2023 when a more virulent strain of clade I mpox was detected. This variant, more aggressive and deadly, has rapidly spread, predominantly affecting the DRC and neighboring regions.

The Alarming Rise in Cases

Since the beginning of the epidemic, the number of reported cases has surged dramatically. The Africa Centres for Disease Control and Prevention (ACDC) reported a staggering 160% increase in cases by 2024. The situation is particularly dire in the DRC, where 70% of cases have been reported among children under 15 years old. Tragically, this demographic also accounts for 85% of the total fatalities.

Global Spread and Rising Concerns

As of August 2024, the epidemic has transcended borders, with cases reported in fifteen countries. This includes four East African nations—Burundi, Kenya, Rwanda, and Uganda—where the disease had not previously been detected. The European Centre for Disease Prevention and Control (ECDC) responded by raising the risk level of clade I mpox from “very low” to “low” for the general European population.

Regional Outbreaks and Responses

In addition to the DRC, the Central African Republic (CAR) declared an outbreak in its capital, Bangui, on 30 July 2024. Previously, mpox had been confined to rural areas within the country, but the shift to urban regions has alarmed public health officials.

The International Response

The global community has not remained idle. On 14 August 2024, the WHO officially declared the mpox epidemic a public health emergency of international concern. This designation has mobilized resources and attention from governments and health organizations worldwide.

The Case in Europe

Sweden became the first European country to report a case of clade I mpox on 15 August 2024. The infected individual had contracted the disease while staying in an affected area in Africa. This case has heightened awareness and concern across Europe, leading to increased surveillance and preventive measures.

The Spread to Asia

The mpox epidemic has also reached Asia, with Pakistan reporting a suspected case in the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province on 15 August 2024. Meanwhile, Taiwan announced three confirmed cases in Tainan as of 16 August 2024. The Philippines reported its first case in a 33-year-old male from Metro Manila, who tested positive for mpox without any history of overseas travel.

The Challenge of a New Variant

A particularly troubling aspect of this epidemic is the emergence of a new phase of the virus, as reported by Dr. Placide Mbala-Kingebeni of Congo’s National Institute of Biomedical Research. This variant predominantly produces lesions on the genitals, increasing the potential for silent transmission, which poses a significant public health challenge.

Comparing the Clades

The current outbreak is driven by a Clade I strain of the mpox virus. Historically, this clade has caused more severe symptoms compared to Clade II, which was more prevalent during the 2022–2023 outbreak. The resurgence of this more dangerous strain has exacerbated the epidemic’s impact.

Vaccination and Treatment Efforts

Until June 2024, there were no approved mpox vaccines in Africa, leaving the continent vulnerable to the virus’s spread. However, in a significant development, the DRC approved the emergency use of the Jynneos and LC16 vaccines. This decision marks a pivotal moment in the fight against mpox, although the efficacy of these vaccines has yet to be fully validated by the Strategic Advisory Group of Experts.

Global Support and Funding

In response to the crisis, global organizations such as GAVI and UNICEF have committed up to $500 million through their “First Response” fund. However, these funds require official requests and approval from the WHO before they can be utilized effectively.

U.S. Contribution

The United States has also stepped up, with the Department of Health and Human Services announcing a donation of 50,000 doses of the Jynneos vaccine to the DRC. This contribution is crucial in bolstering the DRC’s efforts to contain the epidemic.

European Efforts

In Europe, Bavarian Nordic has submitted clinical data to the European Medicines Agency to extend the approval of the Jynneos/Imvanex vaccine for adolescents aged 12 to 17 years. This extension is seen as a necessary step in protecting younger populations who are at increased risk during this outbreak.

Preventive Measures in Asia

In light of the outbreak, Asian countries are taking preventive measures. China’s General Administration of Customs has announced screening protocols for people and goods entering the country from affected areas. This proactive stance is aimed at preventing the virus from gaining a foothold in China.

Pakistan’s Precautions

Similarly, Pakistan has implemented screening measures at all airports and border crossings, particularly those with neighboring countries, to prevent the virus’s spread. These steps are part of a broader effort to safeguard public health amid the growing epidemic.

The Path Forward

The 2023–2024 mpox epidemic represents a significant global health challenge, particularly with the emergence of a more virulent clade I variant. The international community must remain vigilant, continuing to support affected regions with vaccines, funding, and expertise. As the situation evolves, coordinated efforts will be essential to containing the outbreak and preventing further loss of life.