A top World Health Organization (WHO) official has emphasized that mpox is “not the new Covid,” reassuring the public that health authorities are well-equipped to control its spread. Despite worries about a newly identified variant, Clade Ib, which recently emerged in Sweden and is linked to a growing outbreak in Africa, Dr. Hans Kluge, WHO’s Europe regional director, expressed confidence in current measures.
Global Alert as New Mpox Variant Emerges
Dr. Kluge urged immediate, strong action to prevent another cycle of panic and neglect. He stressed the importance of ensuring that vaccines reach areas most in need to halt the spread of the virus, which has already claimed over 450 lives in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) in recent months.
“No Need for Lockdowns”: WHO Confident in Mpox Control
The Clade Ib variant has raised concerns among experts due to its potentially higher transmissibility and severity. However, Dr. Kluge assured the public that the risk to the general population remains low and dismissed the idea of lockdowns, drawing a clear distinction between mpox and the Covid-19 pandemic.
Key to Control: Vaccines and Public Health Action
Mpox, known for causing fever and rash through skin-to-skin contact, can be effectively managed with non-discriminatory public health measures and equitable access to vaccines, regardless of the variant. Dr. Kluge highlighted the success of previous efforts in Europe, where direct engagement with affected communities helped control the spread in 2022.
Rising Cases and International Response
Currently, about 100 new cases of the Clade II variant are reported monthly in Europe. Travellers to affected areas in Africa are advised to consider vaccination, though WHO is not recommending mass vaccination or mask use at this time.
Africa Ramps Up Vaccination Efforts
The Africa Centres for Disease Control and Prevention (Africa CDC) has announced plans to secure 10 million vaccine doses for the continent, with the DRC and Nigeria set to begin vaccinations next week. Danish vaccine manufacturer Bavarian Nordic will also transfer its technology to African manufacturers to increase local vaccine production and reduce costs.
Dr. Jean Kaseya, Director General of Africa CDC, urged international partners to avoid imposing travel bans on African countries, calling for solidarity and appropriate medical support instead.
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