Mpox, formerly known as monkeypox, has recently surged across Africa, raising significant public health concerns. The disease has seen its most notable impact in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), where numbers have skyrocketed, prompting urgent discussions among health officials.
According to the DRC's Minister of Health, Samuel-Roger Kamba, the country recorded over 15,600 potential cases and 548 deaths since the start of the year. Alarmingly, all 26 provinces have been affected by this outbreak. The World Health Organization (WHO) is particularly worried about the rise in cases, noting the disease's spread to neighboring countries including Burundi, Kenya, Rwanda, and Uganda.
The global outbreak of mpox, predominantly fueled by its clade llb strain, hit different parts of the world between 2022 and 2023, largely facilitated via commercial airlines. Sadly, the ripple effects of this viral disease are now echoing throughout nations, drawing attention to the gaps in public health readiness.
Despite the glaring threat posed by mpox, many people are still relatively unaware of its seriousness—particularly those living outside the affected regions. This ignorance often leads to complacency. The disease exhibits symptoms such as fever, headache, muscle aches, swollen lymph nodes, and most conspicuously, distinctive skin rashes or mucosal lesions. These symptoms can linger for two to four weeks post-infection, heightening the urgency for preventive measures.
Stemming from the recent rise in confirmed cases, Quezon City, Philippines also reported its own mpox infection. The latest case—a 31-year-old male—emerged after he showed symptoms beginning October 18, with test results confirming the diagnosis by the end of the month. This incident marks the sixth documented case linked to the city, primarily traced back to the Fahrenheit Club (F Club), known as a popular hotspot for the local LGBTQ+ community.
Interestingly, investigations have revealed the nightclub's management was operating without adhering to contact-tracing mandates, prompting city officials to act decisively. It was noted the city’s Business Permits and Licensing Department had previously issued a cease and desist order due to these lapses. A recent application to convert the F Club to the “FINE Wellness Bar and Spa” raised eyebrows, leading Mayor Joy Belmonte to order the immediate closure of both establishments. Such actions underlined the significant role local government units (LGUs) play in combating public health crises.
Given the rapid uptick of mpox cases, experts stress the necessity of addressing its root causes. Scholars point to wild meat markets—the primary sources of zoonotic diseases—like bushmeat as significant contributors to transmission. Indeed, wildlife trade and consumption can lead to outbreaks as pathogens leap from animals to humans.
Evidence shows Africa’s wild meat trade is substantial, with estimates of 1 to 5 million metric tons harvested annually, alongside the estimated 14 million metric tones of livestock produced. The practices surrounding this trade are often touted for their necessity to local diets, yet they equally pose incredible risks to public health. Poor hygiene and unsafe handling practices are key causes for the transmission of various zoonotic diseases, including mpox.
The need for public health initiatives to address safety standards within these markets is pressing. Experts argue for the implementation of what’s known as the One Health approach—an integrated framework where public health experts, wildlife specialists, veterinarians, and community leaders collaborate to improve health outcomes. This three-pronged strategy involves capacity building through training for market workers, providing economic incentives for safer practices, and establishing regulations for hygiene.
Also, empowering local communities to engage with health interventions increases the likelihood of success. Community involvement is integral as it not only heightens awareness but also aids governments' efforts to align their strategies with the cultural significance of hunting and bushmeat consumption.
With over 48,000 confirmed mpox cases and more than 1,100 deaths reported across Africa, experts believe enhancing food safety is imperative if we want to avoid similar outbreaks. Countries must proactively support the communities reliant on bushmeat to transform practices through education and well-regulated frameworks.
Uganda has also felt the impact of mpox firsthand, recently recording its first death from the disease. Reports indicate 19 districts have been affected, with the capital, Kampala, showing the highest infection rate. Urgently, the US government has pledged over Shs15 billion to bolster Uganda's response, highlighting the importance of international cooperation against seemingly insurmountable public health threats.
Moving forward, the approach to mpox not only necessitates addressing the immediate health crisis but also a long-haul commitment to improving overall food and public health systems. Countries must learn from the current outbreak and build resilient health systems capable of adequately responding to zoonotic diseases, which are likely to arise as we continue to encroach on wildlife habitats. Much of this will rely on community trust and collaboration, which are invaluable to developing sustainable and culturally sensitive health measures.
Therefore, as nations develop their plans to tackle the mpox outbreak, they must engage local communities, respect the integral role of wild meat, and reckon with the accessibility of health information. By addressing these nuanced layers, the goal of reducing mpox and other zoonotic diseases might not only become attainable, but could also safeguard both human health and the environment.
