Mpox on the loose

MPOX ON THE LOOSE

A Global Game of Strain and Seek is being played out as Mpox resurfaces on European and Asian shores.

By Sambratha

In a significant development in the global health landscape, Sweden has reported the first case of a new strain of mpox (formerly known as monkeypox) outside the African continent. Closer home, there have been muted reports of this strain appearing in our neighbourhood in Pakistan.

This marks a concerning milestone in the ongoing fight against the disease, as the virus continues demonstrating its capacity for mutation and international spread.

A New Strain

The new mpox strain detected in Sweden is believed to be distinct from the previously identified strains that have caused outbreaks globally. This discovery is alarming for several reasons. Primarily, it suggests that the virus is evolving, potentially leading to variations in transmission patterns, virulence, and vaccine efficacy. The origins of this strain are still under investigation, but it is thought to have emerged from areas in Africa where mpox is endemic.

Mpox is a viral zoonotic disease that can be transmitted from animals to humans. Historically, the virus has been confined to central and western Africa, where it primarily spreads through direct contact with infected animals or human-to-human transmission via bodily fluids, respiratory droplets, and contaminated materials. However, the virus has made headlines in recent years due to outbreaks in non-endemic regions, primarily driven by international travel and trade.

The Case in Sweden: A Wake-Up Call

Identifying this new mpox strain in Sweden underscores the importance of vigilant surveillance and rapid response mechanisms. The patient, whose identity has not been disclosed for privacy reasons, reportedly developed symptoms shortly after returning from travel. The case was detected through routine diagnostic procedures after the individual sought medical attention for characteristic symptoms of mpox, such as fever, rash, and swollen lymph nodes.

Swedish health authorities acted swiftly, isolating the patient and conducting thorough contact tracing to prevent further spread. While no additional cases have been confirmed in Sweden at the time of writing, the possibility of undetected transmission remains a concern, especially given the virus's incubation period and the potential for asymptomatic carriers.

Global Implications and Preparedness

The emergence of a new mpox strain outside Africa has significant implications for global public health. It raises questions about the effectiveness of existing vaccines and treatments, which were developed based on earlier strains of the virus. If the new strain exhibits resistance to current medical interventions, it could complicate efforts to control future outbreaks.

Moreover, this case highlights the importance of international cooperation in disease surveillance and response. Countries must work together to share information, resources, and expertise to prevent the spread of mpox and other emerging infectious diseases. The World Health Organization (WHO) has already called for enhanced global monitoring and research to understand the new strain's characteristics better and develop targeted strategies to combat it.

In a recent media briefing, Hans Kluge, the WHO's regional director for Europe, clarified that mpox, although a significant public health issue, does not pose the same level of threat as COVID-19. Unlike the highly contagious coronavirus, mpox is less easily transmitted, and with the right measures, it can be effectively controlled. Kluge called for unified global efforts to combat mpox, stressing the need for awareness, vaccination, and rapid response to prevent further outbreaks. He reiterated that with collective action, mpox can be managed successfully, preventing it from becoming a widespread health crisis.

Two key challenges remain. First is Vaccine Efficacy; new strains may challenge the effectiveness of existing vaccines, necessitating updates or new formulations. Second, and more difficult to overcome, is Global Cooperation. As was experienced in the early phases of the COVID 19 pandemic when certain countries refused to share data, international collaboration remains crucial in sharing data, resources, and expertise to manage the spread of the virus effectively.

India: Growing Concerns

India, as one of the most populous countries in the world with extensive international travel, has been on high alert for mpox since the global rise in cases. In 2022, India reported its first cases of mpox, and since then, the country has strengthened its surveillance and response mechanisms. The Indian government has implemented stringent screening protocols at airports and seaports, particularly for travellers from countries with known mpox cases.

In response to the evolving situation, Indian health authorities have urged state governments to remain vigilant and promptly report any suspected mpox cases. Laboratories across the country have been equipped to test for mpox, and healthcare workers have been trained to identify and manage the disease.

The confirmation of a new strain in Sweden has raised concerns about the potential arrival of this variant in India. While no cases of the new strain have been detected in India so far, the possibility of its introduction cannot be ruled out. The government is closely monitoring the situation and is prepared to update its strategies as new information becomes available.

Vaccination and Public Awareness

Vaccination remains one of the most effective tools in the fight against mpox. India has a robust vaccination program in place, but the emergence of new strains could challenge the efficacy of existing vaccines. The Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) is closely collaborating with global health bodies to assess the need for updated vaccines or new formulations specifically targeting the new strain.

Public awareness campaigns have also been ramped up across India, focusing on educating people about the signs and symptoms of mpox and the importance of seeking medical attention if symptoms develop. The campaigns emphasize preventive measures, such as avoiding contact with infected individuals, maintaining good hygiene, and adhering to travel advisories issued by health authorities.

The Path Forward

As the global community grapples with the implications of this new mpox strain, research will play a pivotal role in guiding the response. Scientists in India and worldwide are working to sequence the virus's genome to understand its mutations and assess its potential impact on public health. This information will be crucial in developing targeted interventions, including updated vaccines and antiviral treatments.

Furthermore, international collaboration is essential in addressing the threat posed by emerging infectious diseases. The rapid spread of mpox outside Africa serves as a reminder that diseases know no borders. Strengthening global health security through cooperation, information sharing, and resource allocation is vital in preventing future pandemics.

Assessments

Confirming a new mpox strain in Sweden is a stark reminder of the ever-present threat of emerging infectious diseases. While the immediate risk to the public may be low, the situation demands vigilance from health authorities, researchers, and the global community. In India, the focus must remain on preparedness, swift response, and public awareness to prevent the spread of mpox and safeguard public health.

The lessons learned from past outbreaks must guide our actions as the world navigates this latest challenge. Preparedness, swift response, and public awareness will be crucial in preventing the spread of mpox and safeguarding global health.

The emergence of a new strain outside Africa underscores the need for a proactive approach to infectious disease management that prioritizes innovation, cooperation, and resilience in the face of evolving threats.