Congo is grappling with its most significant outbreak of monkeypox, with scientists indicating the discovery of a new strain in a mining town that could potentially facilitate easier transmission among individuals.
Unveiling a New Phase of Monkeypox
Since January, Congo has recorded over 4,500 suspected cases of monkeypox and close to 300 fatalities, figures that have approximately tripled compared to the same period last year, according to the World Health Organization (WHO). Recently, Congo declared the nationwide outbreak a public health emergency.
An examination of patients hospitalized between October and January in Kamituga, eastern Congo, suggests recent genetic mutations in monkeypox have emerged due to its sustained transmission among humans. This occurrence is significant as it takes place in a town where residents have minimal interaction with the wild animals traditionally associated with the disease’s transmission.
Dr. Placide Mbala-Kingebeni, the lead researcher of the study, described this as a “new phase of monkeypox,” and noted that the findings will soon be submitted to a reputable journal for publication. Dr. Mbala-Kingebeni heads a laboratory at Congo’s National Institute of Biomedical Research, specializing in disease genetics.
Alarming Genetic Mutations
Dr. Mbala-Kingebeni highlighted that the lesions observed in most patients are milder and primarily affect the genital area, making diagnosis more challenging. In previous African outbreaks, lesions were predominantly seen on the chest, hands, and feet. Additionally, the new strain appears to have a lower fatality rate.
In its recent report on the global monkeypox situation, WHO mentioned that the new variant might necessitate a revised testing strategy to detect the mutations.
With less than half of the monkeypox cases in Congo being tested, experts warn of potential silent transmission if patients do not proactively seek medical attention.
Dr. Boghuma Titanji, an infectious diseases expert at Emory University, expressed concern over the new mutations, suggesting that the virus may be adapting to efficiently spread among humans, potentially leading to significant outbreaks.
Challenges in Vaccination Efforts
While monkeypox outbreaks in the West were contained with the aid of vaccines and treatments, Congo has had limited access to such resources. Congo’s Minister of Health has authorized vaccine use in high-risk provinces, and discussions with donor countries like Japan are underway to procure the necessary doses.
Dr. Dimie Ogoina, a monkeypox expert at Niger Delta University, drew parallels between the spread of monkeypox among sex workers and the early stages of the HIV epidemic, emphasizing the need for proactive intervention strategies.
Despite the ongoing spread of monkeypox in Africa and beyond, WHO’s emergencies chief, Dr. Michael Ryan, highlighted the lack of significant investment from donors, underscoring the urgent need for international support.