The World Health Organization (WHO) has declared a new Mpox outbreak a global public health emergency, raising alarms worldwide. This decision might seem like déjà vu, but there are crucial differences between the current Mpox outbreak and the one from 2022. 

Mpox, previously known as monkeypox, is a viral infection known for causing painful lesions. The virus spreads through direct contact with infected people, animals, or contaminated items such as clothing and bedding.

Currently, the strain causing the new Mpox outbreak is different from the one that surged globally in 2022. The virus is divided into two primary groups: clade I and clade II. The clade II strain was responsible for the 2022 epidemic, which resulted in about 100,000 cases worldwide. In contrast, the new Mpox outbreak involves clade I, which is known to be more transmissible and potentially more severe.

Current Situation and Spread

The latest Mpox outbreak of clade I began in January 2023 in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC). Since then, it has spread to 12 other countries in the region. Recently, Sweden reported the first known case of clade I outside Africa. 

The infected individual had traveled to Africa. Pakistan also confirmed a case of Mpox this week, but the specific strain has yet to be identified. Clade I’s increased transmissibility has experts concerned. Unlike the previous clade II strain, clade I spreads more easily and can cause more severe illness. 

This has prompted a global response as health authorities work to contain the new Mpox outbreak and prevent further international spread.

Transmission Methods

Mpox traditionally spreads in several ways. Direct contact with the rash or bodily fluids of an infected person is one method. Another way is through touching contaminated items like bedding or clothing. The virus can also be transmitted by contact with infected animals, such as through hunting or handling them, touching sick rodents, or being bitten or scratched.

In 2022, the clade II strain, specifically clade IIb, was primarily spread through sexual contact, particularly among men who have sex with men. The new Mpox outbreak of clade I has also been linked to sexual transmission, especially among female sex workers and men who have sex with men in the DRC. Preliminary research, still awaiting peer review, connects an outbreak in a mining town in Congo to professional sex work in local bars.

However, the transmission of clade I is not limited to sexual contact. Dr. Stuart Isaacs from the University of Pennsylvania suggests that the virus might also spread through contact with animals and within households. Due to limited surveillance in affected areas, the full scope of transmission routes is still unclear.

Severity of Recent Cases

Historically, clade I outbreaks have been more severe than clade II. Previous instances had fatality rates as high as 10%. In contrast, the recent Mpox outbreak has shown a lower death rate. Out of approximately 22,000 cases reported in Congo, over 1,200 deaths have been recorded, putting the fatality rate at around 5%. Despite this lower rate, the severity of clade I remains a significant concern.

Protective Measures

To protect yourself during the current Mpox outbreak, it is crucial to stay informed and follow public health guidelines. If you are in or traveling to affected areas, minimize direct contact with sick individuals and animals. Avoid sharing personal items and maintain good hygiene practices, especially in close contact situations.

As the Mpox outbreak continues to evolve, staying updated with information from reliable sources like the WHO and local health departments is essential. Understanding the differences between clade I and clade II, and taking appropriate precautions, will help in managing and eventually overcoming this global health threat. In summary, while the new Mpox outbreak might seem familiar, it presents new challenges.

By being informed and vigilant, we can better handle this evolving public health issue and work towards preventing further spread.