In the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), efforts to contain the largest outbreak of monkeypox in the country’s history are facing a critical juncture, as scientists uncover a potentially more transmissible form of the disease.
Since January, the DRC has witnessed a surge in suspected monkeypox cases, with over 4,500 reported instances and nearly 300 fatalities, marking a threefold increase compared to the same period last year, according to the World Health Organization (WHO). The situation prompted Congolese authorities to declare a nationwide health emergency in response to the crisis.
The Emergence of a New Variant
Recent findings from a study conducted in Kamituga, eastern Congo, shed light on a concerning development: a mutated form of monkeypox that appears to be adapting for more efficient human-to-human transmission. Dr. Placide Mbala-Kingebeni, lead researcher of the study, revealed that genetic mutations observed in the virus suggest ongoing transmission among humans, particularly in areas where direct contact with wildlife, traditionally associated with the disease, is limited.
“The discovery of this new variant marks a pivotal moment in the trajectory of monkeypox,” remarked Dr. Mbala-Kingebeni, underscoring the urgency of the situation. The lesions observed in affected individuals are milder and predominantly localized to the genital region, complicating diagnosis efforts. Moreover, this variant appears to have a lower mortality rate compared to previous strains, posing challenges in identifying and containing its spread.
WHO has highlighted the need for an adapted testing strategy to detect the mutations associated with the new variant effectively. However, less than half of suspected monkeypox cases in Congo undergo testing, raising concerns about undetected transmission. Dr. Mbala-Kingebeni warned of the risk of silent transmission, emphasizing the importance of proactive surveillance measures to curb further spread.
The introduction of vaccines presents a crucial intervention strategy, yet challenges persist in securing sufficient doses for at-risk populations. Congo’s health minister has authorized vaccination campaigns in high-risk provinces, with discussions underway to procure additional doses from donor countries like Japan.
The emergence of this new monkeypox variant evokes parallels with previous infectious disease outbreaks, particularly HIV/AIDS. Dr. Dimie Ogoina, an expert in monkeypox, drew attention to similarities in transmission patterns, emphasizing the importance of destigmatizing sexually transmitted infections to facilitate early detection and treatment.
Dr. Boghuma Titanji, an infectious diseases specialist, expressed concern over the virus’s adaptation for efficient human transmission, warning of potential large-scale outbreaks if left unchecked.
