BERLIN, Aug 20 (Reuters) – Mpox, regardless of whether it is a new or old strain, is not the new Covid because authorities know how to control its spread, a World Health Organization official insisted on Tuesday.
“Together we can and must overcome mpox,” Hans Kluk, WHO regional director for Europe, told a UN media briefing.
“So, will we choose to set up systems to control and eradicate mpox globally? Or will we enter another cycle of panic and neglect? How we respond now and in the coming years will prove a critical test for Europe and the world,” he added.
Mpox, a viral infection that causes pus-filled sores and fever-like symptoms, is usually mild but can kill.
The clade 1b strain has caused global concern because it spreads easily despite regular close contact.
A case of the variant was confirmed in Sweden last week and linked to a growing outbreak in Africa, the first sign of spread outside the continent. After the new variant was identified, the World Health Organization recently declared the outbreak a public health emergency of international concern.
Kluge said the focus on the new clade 1 strain will help in the fight against the less virulent clade 2 strain, which will spread globally from 2022, and allow Europe to improve its response through better health advice and surveillance.
About 100 new cases of the clade 2 mpox strain are now being reported every month in the European region, Kluge added.
Mpox is spread through close physical contact, including sex, but unlike previous global pandemics such as COVID-19 there is no evidence that it is easily spread through the air.
Health officials need to be alert and flexible in case new, more contagious clods or their transmission route change, but there is no recommendation that people wear masks, said WHO spokesman Tarik Jazarevic.
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Reporting by Miranda Murray, Editing by Rachel More and Giles Elgood
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