How Dangerous Is MPOX & Should We Be Concerned?

The current mpox outbreak has led the World Health Organization (WHO) to take action, but should we all be concerned? 

Last week, WHO decided that the outbreak within the Democratic Republic of Congo was a global health emergency.  The declaration was due to the fast-moving, deadly strain of the virus, dubbed Clade Ib.  In the current outbreak, over 15,600 cases have been confirmed, with nearly 540 deaths, most of which have been in the DRC.  The virus appears to be spreading the fastest through direct contact with those infected. 

Thankfully, on Tuesday, WHO offered some positive news about the outbreak as fears of a similar COVID-19 event loom.  WHO’s European director, Hans Kluge has shared that the chances of the outbreak spreading beyond its origin region are unlikely. 

“Mpox is not the new COVID.  We know how to control mpox and, in the European region, the steps needed to eliminate its transmission altogether,” WHO’s European director Hans Kluge explained during a media briefing in Geneva, CBS News reports.

WHO spokesman Tarik Jasarevic also stated that vaccinations are most necessary for those “in outbreak settings,” as the organization recognizes that risks for neighboring African countries are still high.

Mpox was first discovered in 1958 in captive African monkeys being researched. In 1972, the first human was diagnosed with the virus. The latest global health emergency designation is the second time that the WHO has made this decision in regards to mpox. Per the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, the first followed a multi-country outbreak in 2022 that infected nearly 100,000 people, including 32,000 in the United States alone.

Mpox symptoms include a notable rash characterized by large blisters covering the body, swollen lymph nodes, fever, and headaches.  In some cases, the virus can clear on its own.  However, in the most severe cases, those diagnosed can experience pneumonia, swelling of the brain, heart inflammation, increased risks of additional bacterial infections, and death.

While there does not seem to be a reason for panic in the U.S. as of yet, if you believe you’ve been infected or notice a sudden rash of large pimples, there are several steps to take.  First, avoid close contact with others and even pets.  Cover your rashes the best you can and avoid touching them.  Wear a mask and gloves, and try washing your hands as much as possible. Most importantly, see a healthcare provider immediately.