The Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) is battling its largest mpox outbreak ever recorded, with scientists warning a newly identified form of the virus could spread more easily between humans. 🦠 Over 4,500 suspected cases and nearly 300 deaths have been reported this year—triple last year’s numbers—prompting the DRC to declare a national health emergency.
Mutation Mystery in Mining Town
Genetic analysis from Kamituga, a mining hub in eastern DRC, reveals mpox is evolving through sustained human-to-human transmission. Unlike past outbreaks linked to animal contact, researchers found milder lesions concentrated on genital areas, making diagnosis harder. 'We’re in a new phase,' said Dr. Placide Mbala-Kingebeni, whose team identified the mutations.
Silent Transmission Risk
The WHO warns the variant demands updated testing strategies. With fewer than half of cases being tested, Dr. Mbala-Kingebeni stressed: 'We risk silent transmission if people don’t come forward.' About a third of cases are linked to sex workers, echoing patterns seen in the 2022 global mpox emergency. 🌍
Clade Concerns
Two mpox variants exist: Clade 1 (deadlier, up to 10% fatality) and Clade 2 (lower risk). The new mutations belong to Clade 1 but show lower death rates. Experts fear the virus is adapting, with Emory University’s Dr. Boghuma Titanji warning it could spark 'consequential outbreaks.'
Vaccine Shortages
While Western nations curbed mpox with vaccines, the DRC has almost none. Health officials are negotiating with donors like Japan for doses. 'This feels like HIV’s early days,' said mpox expert Dr. Dimie Ogoina, citing stigma and delayed reporting as major hurdles.
