Mpox Outbreak in Africa: Tips for Healthy Prevention

A deadlier form of mpox has spread beyond the borders of the Democratic Republic of Congo in Africa , prompting the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention to warn doctors in the United States about potential cases . The World Health Organization is also examining whether the latest outbreak should be declared a global public health emergency . Congo , located in central Africa , has experienced the worst of an ongoing outbreak of mpox , with more than 12,000 people diagnosed and at least 470 deaths . Neighboring countries , including Kenya and the Central African Republic , have also reported cases linked to the strain circulating in Congo.

Mpox , formerly known as monkeypox , is a virus that causes fevers , headaches , muscle aches , and painful boils on the skin . It spreads from person to person through close , skin - to - skin contact . The current strain , called clade 1b , is particularly worrisome due to its virulence , with nearly 4 % of cases proving deadly . Children under 15 years of age are particularly affected by this strain , with infants and children under five years of age at the highest risk of severe disease and death.

The Jynneos mpox vaccine is effective for both clade 1 and clade 2 of mpox , but less than a quarter of those most at risk in the U.S. have received both doses . This is in stark contrast to African countries , where vaccines are not as readily available . Despite the availability of vaccines in the U.S. , there is a limited supply worldwide , with the majority in countries that have purchased them as part of a strategic national stockpile . Virologists express concern for African countries where vaccines are not as accessible.

The chief of the World Health Organization is considering convening an expert committee to advise on whether Africa 's growing mpox outbreak should be declared an international emergency . The more virulent and deadly strain of the virus detected in Kenya , Uganda , and the DRC has prompted ramped - up responses from various health organizations and local governments . More funding and support are needed for a comprehensive response to the outbreak , prompting consideration of declaring a public health emergency of international concern.