CDC, WHO Warn Risk of Mpox Resurgence This Spring, Summer; Here’s What To Do To Prevent It

Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and World Health Organization (WHO) European Region released a new campaign due to the risk of mpox (monkeypox) resurgence this spring and summer. The health authorities have already progressed in battling mpox, but mpox cases have risen again.

Mpox Cases in the United States

According to a CDC report, the number of people infected with the virus is again rising. The Chicago Department of Public Health reported 12 confirmed and one probable incidence of mpox between April 17 and May 5, 2023. Nine of the 13 patients had received two doses of the JYNNEOS vaccine, and none needed to visit the hospital.

As of May 10, were 30,395 cases documented in the United States, most of which emerged during the virus's initial outbreak in the summer of 2022. Although anyone can contract the illness through non-sexual contact, the communities most at risk for the disease are still considered transgender persons and men who have sex with men (MSM). Since the outbreak started, 42 people have died in the United States due to the virus.

Men who reported having intercourse with other men made up about 94 percent of the cases. Kathryn H. Jacobsen, a professor of health studies and epidemiology at the University of Richmond, told Newsweek that nearly all of the 42 patients who passed away from complications of mpox had untreated HIV infections.

The CDC predicts mpox outbreaks will occur this summer in several American cities. However, since many people most at risk of contracting the virus through sexual contact have already gotten two doses of the JYNNEOS vaccine, the overall number of mpox cases this year will probably be lower than the number diagnosed last year.

WHO European Region also warned the same. According to the health organization, elimination is possible. However, mpox is still in circulation. This spring and summer, as festivals and events start-up, there may be a rise in the number of mpox cases as sexual activities might occur.

Low amounts of transmission are still present in some European Region nations. Localized rises outside our area remind us that the pandemic is still ongoing. WHO calls on the public to redouble their efforts to keep moving toward eradicating mpox.

ALSO READ: Monkeypox Might Have Evolved Faster Than Expected With More Than 50 Infectious Mutations Not Seen Before

What To Do To Avoid The Mpox Virus?

WHO shared some recommendations to eliminate the mpox virus. It encouraged the health authorities to promote and bring testing vaccination closer to the most affected areas; reach underserved groups like trans people, sex workers, and men having sex with men; develop vaccination plans; build the skills of health workers to identify mpox; declare mpox a nationally notifiable disease to detect it early and allocate resources for it; and make it part of national sexual health programs.

For individuals, WHO encouraged the public only to access trusted sources and information about mpox; have themselves checked for symptoms and get double tested; get vaccinated as it offers an extra layer of protection, and keep oneself protected even after getting a vaccine.

For organizers of mass gatherings, WHO encourages them to make mpox information available before, during, and after the event. The organizers should also extend the information about mpox to side events, share local information on where to get tested, and encourage those with mpox symptoms to skip the event.