Another potential pandemic is emerging, with the World Health Organization (WHO) and Africa CDC declaring mpox a public health emergency due to the spread of a more deadly and transmissible variant. The latest outbreak has already claimed over 500 lives and infected thousands across Africa, with cases now appearing in Sweden and Pakistan, raising concerns about government overreach and preparedness failures similar to those seen during COVID-19.
America At Risk From Global Health Crisis
The Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) stands at the epicenter of the mpox outbreak, accounting for most cases and deaths with a particular impact on children under 15. Unlike the 2022 outbreak that primarily affected specific populations, the current crisis impacts men, women, and children indiscriminately, creating a broader threat to public health and raising questions about border security policies.
Mpox Mutation Sparks Global Alarm: Are We Facing the Next Pandemic?
Mpox, once a rare virus mainly confined to parts of Central Africa, is rapidly evolving into a more serious global health threat. Scientists are alarmed by its growing ability to spread from person to person, a… pic.twitter.com/3FYtMVYY4Q
— Deborah (@Deborah07849071) April 1, 2025
Health authorities have identified Clade 1b as the main variant of concern, reportedly more deadly and easily transmitted than previous versions that have caused outbreaks. International health organizations are scrambling to address outbreak drivers while facing severe testing shortages and surveillance gaps, particularly in the Democratic Republic of the Congo, where infrastructure limitations hamper effective response.
The WHO has activated its highest level of alarm under international health law, declaring a Public Health Emergency of International Concern (PHEIC) following recommendations from the International Health Regulations Emergency Committee. This declaration comes amid growing cases in multiple African countries, including Burundi, Kenya, Rwanda, and Uganda. Over 14,000 infections and 524 deaths were reported this year alone—a significant increase from 2023 figures.
Mpox has an animal reservoir, so it can't be fully eradicated. Researchers warn that unless international action is taken now — including investment in testing and new treatments — #mpox will continue to re-emerge and threaten global health. https://t.co/Q4EQjMnsV8 pic.twitter.com/WPjAxr3XK6
— Pandemic Action Network (@PandemicAction) April 2, 2025
Vaccine Shortage Threatens Global Response
The vaccine supply situation remains critical, with only 200,000 doses currently available out of the 10 million doses needed for Africa. WHO coordinates donations from various countries and organizations while issuing an Emergency Use Listing call to accelerate vaccine access for lower-income countries. However, questions remain about whether these efforts will be sufficient.
International response efforts include deploying machines for blood sample analysis and supporting case investigations in affected regions. A regional response plan has been developed requiring an initial $15 million for surveillance, preparedness, and response activities. However, critics question whether these funds will be allocated appropriately, given past failures of international health initiatives.
Changing Transmission Patterns Raise Concerns
Mpox was traditionally known for animal-to-human transmission, but recent outbreaks demonstrate significant human-to-human spread, mainly through intimate contact. This shift in transmission patterns has led to longer chains of infection and sustained outbreaks, requiring updated containment strategies and raising questions about what Americans should know about this emerging threat.
“Mpox control has to climb up the global health agenda. We have limited diagnostic tools and even fewer antiviral treatments. We urgently need better surveillance and local or regional capacity to produce what we need — otherwise, we are at risk of future epidemics.” – Dr. Maluquer de Motes.
Health experts emphasize that pox causes symptoms including painful rash, fever, and swollen glands, which can lead to serious illness in vulnerable populations. The disease, caused by a virus related to smallpox, continues to evolve, with new variants appearing that may have greater affinity for human hosts. This prompts calls for enhanced vigilance and improved diagnostic capabilities to prevent another global pandemic.
Sources:
https://www.thelancet.com/journals/lancet/article/PIIS0140-6736(24)01751-3/fulltext
https://news.un.org/en/story/2024/08/1153176
https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2025/04/250401131523.htm