Congo's Mpox Crisis: New Variant Threatens Global Spread

In the Democratic Republic of Congo, a critical mpox outbreak is unfolding, with a new variant emerging from the eastern region. This situation has prompted the World Health Organization (WHO) to declare a global health emergency on 2024-08-14, highlighting the potential for international spread.

Sarah Bagheni, a resident of the Bulengo displacement camp in eastern Congo, exemplifies the challenges faced by many in the region. Experiencing symptoms such as headache, fever, and unusual skin lesions, she remains unaware of the potential mpox infection and lacks access to medical assistance.

Congo has reported over 96% of the world's approximately 17,000 mpox cases this year, with around 500 fatalities. The conflict-torn eastern region, home to millions displaced by ongoing violence, faces significant hurdles in addressing the outbreak.

"Just look at the overcrowding here. If nothing is done, we will all be infected here, or maybe we are already all infected."

The situation in displacement camps is particularly dire, with overcrowding and limited medical facilities exacerbating the risk of transmission. Dr. Pierre Olivier Ngadjole of Medair reports that 70% of new mpox cases in the Goma area over the past two months originated from these camps.

Mpox, first discovered in 1958, can spread between humans through close physical contact. Symptoms typically include fever, headache, muscle aches, and a distinctive rash, with an incubation period of 6 to 13 days. The virus can survive on surfaces, particularly in dark, cool environments with low humidity.

The new variant, potentially more infectious, has raised concerns about its impact on younger populations. Salim Abdool Karim of the Africa Centers for Disease Control and Prevention notes that children under 15 account for 70% of cases and 85% of deaths in Congo.

Despite the availability of effective vaccines and treatments globally, Congo lacks access to these resources. Health Minister Samuel-Roger Kamba has appealed for vigilance, as the country currently has no vaccine doses available.

The outbreak's potential for further spread has alarmed experts. Dr. Chris Beyrer of Duke University's Global Health Institute emphasizes the complex factors complicating efforts to contain the virus, including conflict, poverty, and transient populations.

As the situation unfolds, the international community faces mounting pressure to address the crisis and prevent a wider global health emergency. The mpox outbreak in Congo serves as a stark reminder of the interconnectedness of global health and the urgent need for equitable access to medical resources.