Monkeypox (Mpox) : Signs and Prevention

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Extract from the article: The World Health Organization (WHO) declared a Public Health Emergency of International Concern (PHEIC) on Wednesday, August 14, in response to the alarming spread of the mpox virus in Central and Eastern Africa. This virus, known for its...

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The World Health Organization (WHO) declared a Public Health Emergency of International Concern (PHEIC) on Wednesday, August 14, in response to the alarming spread of the mpox virus in Central and Eastern Africa. This virus, known for its devastating effects, has recently seen the emergence of a more virulent subtype (clade 1b) in East Africa, raising global concerns about its lethality and transmissibility, although formal evidence is yet to be established.

In 2024, the African continent recorded 17,541 cases of mpox across 12 countries, resulting in 517 deaths, according to Africa CDC. The rapid progression of the virus and the appearance of new, more aggressive strains have raised major public health concerns, calling for an effective and united international response. As of today, Togo has not reported any cases. However, the country is on high alert against monkeypox. On Thursday, August 15, 2024, the Ministry of Health announced the strengthening of epidemiological surveillance across the territory, including at entry points, to ensure early detection. A crisis management committee has also been established to address this health threat.

Understanding Mpox

Mpox, caused by the simian orthopoxvirus, is primarily transmitted through direct contact with an infected person, though transmission through contaminated objects or infected animals is also possible. The disease often presents with a painful and persistent skin rash, accompanied by symptoms such as fever, headache, and lymphadenopathy, which are pathological swellings of one or more lymph nodes, one of the body's main defense mechanisms. Severe cases, which may lead to complications like lung or brain infections, are particularly feared in immunocompromised individuals, children, and pregnant women.

Transmission Modes and Prevention

Human-to-human transmission remains predominant, especially through direct contact with skin lesions and during sexual intercourse. The virus can also survive on contaminated surfaces, increasing the risk of infection through everyday objects. Strict precautions, such as regular hand washing and surface disinfection, are essential to reduce the spread. Although rare, human-to-animal transmission has been reported in households, but this is a subject that requires further study.

Protection Measures and Treatments

Efforts to contain the disease include raising awareness about mpox symptoms and promoting preventive practices. WHO recommends the strict isolation of infected individuals until full recovery. While no universally available specific treatment exists, antiviral drugs like Tecovirimat offer a glimmer of hope in treating severe forms of the disease.

Vaccination

In terms of prevention, vaccines developed against smallpox have been adapted to combat mpox. Targeted vaccination campaigns are recommended for high-risk individuals, although mass vaccination is not yet considered. Despite vaccination efforts, it is crucial to continue applying preventive measures, as immunity takes time to develop and is not guaranteed for everyone. At the onset of symptoms or suspicion of symptoms mentioned earlier, individuals should immediately seek care at a health center for comprehensive treatment.

Raymond DZAKPATA

Article validated by Professor Anoumou Yaotsè Dagnra, Professor of Microbiology at the University of Lomé.