In Africa, concerns are growing about a subtype of mpox that is causing more severe illness, particularly in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC). The World Health Organization has declared this variant a public health emergency of international concern, and cases have been reported in Europe. While the U.S. has not reported any cases of this variant, experts believe the risk can be mitigated due to factors like immunity from vaccination or prior infection and improved healthcare access.
This clade I variant is considered more transmissible and severe than clade II, which led to a global mpox outbreak in 2022. High-quality healthcare in the U.S. is expected to minimize the impact of clade I, although experts caution against complacency. The effectiveness of the Jynneos vaccine in protecting against both clades is also highlighted.
In the DRC, the outbreak has mainly spread through sexual contact, particularly among high-risk groups like men who have sex with men. However, children have also been affected. The crowded living conditions and lack of access to the vaccine in the DRC contribute to the spread of the virus.
The differences in sexual behavior patterns and immunity levels between Africa and the U.S. are factors that could influence the spread of mpox. While current immunity levels and vaccination efforts are effective in preventing widespread outbreaks in the U.S., experts warn about the potential for the virus to mutate and evade existing defenses. Further research is needed to understand the full impact of this emerging subtype of mpox.
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