Clinical Infection in Practice (Nov 2024)
Mpox 2024: New variant, new challenges, and the looming pandemic
Abstract
The emergence of the clade 1b variant of mpox has transformed the virus into a global health threat, prompting the World Health Organization to declare it a public health emergency. Clade 1b is characterized by enhanced transmissibility, particularly through human-to-human contact, including sexual transmission. This variant has spread rapidly from its epicenter in the Democratic Republic of Congo to neighboring African countries and beyond, with confirmed cases in Europe and Asia. The global response has focused on enhancing surveillance, improving diagnostics, and increasing access to the Jynneos vaccine and antiviral treatments, such as tecovirimat. However, several challenges remain, particularly in resource-limited settings. This review emphasizes the need for robust public health infrastructure, international collaboration, and ongoing research to mitigate the impact of mpox and prepare for future outbreaks.
