First severe mpox case in Sweden sparks WHO global alert
In Sweden, the first case of a more severe type of mpox – a disease known as monkeypox – outside of Africa has been confirmed. The World Health Organization (WHO) has been sounding the alarm about this disease for two years, and on Wednesday, 14 August, they announced that it constitutes a "global public health threat." Is mpox contagious? Is there a vaccine for monkeypox?
Monkeypox is a viral disease caused by the monkeypox virus from the Orthopoxvirus genus. It was first identified in 1958 in laboratory monkeys. However, they are not the only virus carriers—other animals, such as rodents, can also transmit it. Humans are also carriers of the virus.
Monkeypox initially occurred mainly in Central and West Africa, but in recent years, it has spread to other continents, including Europe and North America. The main cause of the increased incidence is a mutated strain of the virus, which has proven to be more contagious and deadly. The World Health Organization has declared mpox a global public health threat for the second time in two years.
From 2022, when WHO declared an outbreak of monkeypox, by the end of July 2024, over 99,000 cases of infection were confirmed, including 208 deaths in 116 countries. For comparison – by 24 May 2022, 131 cases and 106 suspected cases outside of Africa were confirmed.
Is monkeypox contagious?
Mpox is a highly contagious disease. The virus is primarily transmitted through direct physical contact with an infected person or with materials contaminated with the virus, such as clothing or bedding. Contracting the virus through contact with animals that can transmit it to humans is also possible.
The main transmission mode between humans is close skin-to-skin contact with an infected person. The virus can also spread via respiratory droplets during close contact, although such cases are less common. Mpox can also be transmitted sexually.
The monkeypox virus has mutated and can currently use enzymes in human cells to replicate faster, facilitating its transmission. This means that the new strain of the virus can spread much faster than previous variants, causing more severe illnesses in more people.
Symptoms and course of monkeypox
Monkeypox resembles chickenpox in many ways, making it difficult to recognise in its early stages. The first symptoms of infection include fever, headache, muscle pain, and a characteristic rash that initially looks like pimples and then turns into fluid-filled blisters.
In more severe cases, flu-like symptoms, such as chills, fatigue, and swollen lymph nodes, may occur. Some patients may experience more severe complications, including pneumonia, encephalitis, or secondary bacterial infections.
Is there a vaccine against mpox?
The World Health Organization (WHO) has initiated an accelerated approval process for monkeypox vaccines. Currently, two vaccines against mpox have been approved by the WHO's Strategic Advisory Group of Experts on Immunization (SAGE). WHO is working with vaccine manufacturers to ensure their safety, efficacy, and quality, allowing for widespread distribution by organisations such as UNICEF and Gavi, the Vaccine Alliance.
Monkeypox vaccinations are performed using the JYNNEOS vaccine. They are recommended for individuals over 18 as post-exposure vaccinations in situations where close physical contact with an infected person through intact skin or mucous membranes and prolonged face-to-face contact within a distance of less than one metre without a protective mask.
Vaccinations are also recommended for medical personnel caring for monkeypox patients or those who may come into contact with infectious material, as well as laboratory personnel.
Mpox mortality and complications
Mortality associated with monkeypox varies depending on the virus strain and the region in which it occurs. The mortality rate is around 1-3% for infections with the West African strain, while for the Central African strain, it can reach as high as 10%. These statistics are concerning and prompt the implementation of widespread preventive measures.
The most common complications after recovering from monkeypox are secondary bacterial infections, which can lead to sepsis, pneumonia, and encephalitis. Some patients also experience permanent scarring from the rash. In severe cases of the disease, complications can lead to death despite appropriate treatment.
How to protect yourself from monkeypox?
To effectively prevent the spread of monkeypox, it is recommended to follow personal hygiene principles, such as frequent hand washing with soap and water and avoiding contact with potentially infected individuals. People at risk of exposure to the virus should consider protective vaccinations, especially if they work in healthcare or regions with a high incidence of infections.
Treatment for monkeypox infection is mainly symptomatic. Patients are given antipyretic, analgesic, and rehydration medications to alleviate symptoms. In more severe cases, specialist treatment may be necessary, including antibiotics for secondary bacterial infections.
