Mpox awareness

Mpox (formerly known as monkeypox) has been declared a public health emergency by the chief of the World Health Organization (WHO). The rise in cases constitutes a public health emergency of international concern (PHEIC) and a need for Mpox Awareness. Under international law, a PHEIC is the highest level of alarm. The Africa Centres for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC has also declared the situation as a public health emergency.

There have been 14 000 reported cases of Mpox in 2024, with 524 deaths. By early August we already saw over 14,000 reported cases of the virus with 524 deaths. This is a significant increase in reported cases from 2023. 

In order to prevent and manage this virus, we need to a better awareness of Mpox.

What is Mpox?

Mpox is a rare viral zoonosis (a virus transmitted to humans from animals) caused by the Mpox virus, which belongs to the Orthopoxvirus genus. The disease was first identified in 1958 when outbreaks occurred in monkeys kept for research, hence the name. The first human case was recorded in 1970 in the Democratic Republic of Congo. Monkeypox can spread from person to person or occasionally from animals to people.

The virus is similar to smallpox. Typically it causes milder symptoms, but it can cause death. The two strains of the virus are the Congo Basin and West African clades, with the former being more severe. The incubation period for Mpox is usually between 7 to 14 days, but can range from 5 to 21 days. The disease begins with flu-like symptoms such as fever, headache, muscle aches, and exhaustion. A few days after the onset of fever, a rash develops, often starting on the face and then spreading to other parts of the body. The rash progresses through different stages before finally scabbing over and healing.

Symptoms of Mpox

• Fever: A sudden onset of high temperature is common.
• Headache: Severe and persistent headaches can occur.
• Muscle aches: Myalgia, or muscle aches, often accompanies other symptoms.
• Backache: Back pain is frequently reported.
• Swollen lymph nodes: Lymphadenopathy is a key differentiator from smallpox.
• Chills and exhaustion: General malaise and fatigue are typical.
• Rash: The rash evolves from macules to papules, vesicles, pustules, and finally scabs.

The disease typically lasts 2 to 4 weeks, and most patients recover without treatment. However, severe cases can occur, especially in young children, pregnant women, or individuals with weakened immune systems.

How is Mpox spread?

Mpox can spread through several routes:

1. Animal-to-Human Transmission:
This can occur via direct contact with the blood, bodily fluids, or cutaneous or mucosal lesions of infected animals. Rodents and primates are common animal hosts. So areas which encourage rats (for example refuse areas, household waste, bird feeders and overgrown areas) can create opportunity for transmission.

2. Human-to-Human Transmission:
This mainly happens through respiratory droplets during prolonged face-to-face contact, or through direct contact with body fluids, lesion material, or indirect contact with lesion material, such as through contaminated clothing or linens.

3. Vertical Transmission:
In some cases, the virus can be transmitted from mother to fetus via the placenta or during close contact after birth.

4. Environmental Transmission:
Touching objects, surfaces, or fabrics (such as clothing or linens) that have been used by an infected person can also spread the virus.

Mpox awareness helps to prevent the spread:

Prevention strategies are crucial in managing the spread of Mpox:

Vaccination

The smallpox vaccine has been shown to be about 85% effective in preventing Mpox. JYNNEOS (also known as Imvamune or Imvanex) is a vaccine that is specifically licensed for use against Monkeypox. It is recommended for people who are at high risk of exposure, such as healthcare workers and close contacts of infected individuals.

Creating Mpoxawareness in public places

Use Mpox awareness tactics such as:

• Mpox awareness posters
• Mpox awareness flyers
• Mpox awareness social media posts
• Mpox Awareness toolbox talks
• etc.

We have an instant solution with our Mpox Awareness campaigns which gives you all the tools to share with your school, workplace or other public area.

Hygiene Practices

Regular handwashing with soap and water or using an alcohol-based hand sanitizer is essential, especially after contact with potentially infected individuals or animals.

Avoiding Contact with Wild Animals

Limiting contact with wild animals that could harbour the virus and avoiding the consumption of bushmeat.

Isolation and Use of Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)

Infected individuals should be isolated, and caregivers should use PPE to prevent transmission.

Travel Precautions

Individuals traveling to endemic areas should take precautions, such as avoiding contact with animals and using insect repellent to prevent bites from infected animals.

Global Efforts and Resources for Mpox awareness and education

The World Health Organization (WHO), Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), and other health organisations are actively monitoring the Mpox outbreak and providing guidance on containment and prevention. The WHO has developed interim guidelines for managing and reporting Mpox cases and has emphasised the importance of a coordinated global response as seen in this media report.

Stay safe, stay aware and informed

Mpox presents a significant public health challenge, but with proper awareness and preventive measures, we can mitigate its impact. Staying informed about the symptoms, transmission methods, and protective strategies is essential for both individuals and communities. By working together and adhering to health guidelines, we can manage the Monkeypox outbreak and protect our health and the health of those around us.