In 2022, Jeffrey Todd became one of more than 30,000 U.S. adults to contract mpox. After noticing his first lesion, he found online images of mpox rashes resembling his blemish. He assumed the rash would disappear by morning.
Instead, over two days, more bumps appeared on his right arm and back. A lesion also emerged on his neck. The spots itched, and he experienced fatigue, backaches, and shooting leg pains.
Todd was eventually tested for mpox and started antiviral treatment. However, the process involved a long and frustrating journey of self-advocacy. After 28 days in quarantine, he resolved to raise awareness about mpox. Todd hoped to prevent others from enduring the same ordeal.
Since 2022, mpox cases in non-endemic countries have dropped. Yet, mpox still harms tens of thousands worldwide. The World Health Organization (WHO) will convene a meeting this month to evaluate whether mpox still constitutes a global emergency.
Why Is the WHO Convening a Mpox Meeting?
This summer, the World Health Organization (WHO) declared a global public health emergency for mpox. A localized outbreak in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) began spreading to neighboring countries. Now, the WHO plans to meet this month and decide if mpox remains a global emergency.
Nearly 50,000 mpox cases have been reported in Africa this year. Over 1,000 people have died from the disease. The DRC has the highest endemic cases, followed by Burundi and Uganda. Before 2022, the DRC considered mpox endemic to Western Africa. Occasional cases emerged due to international travel.
Since 2022, clade 2 mpox has appeared in regions previously unaffected by the disease. Even so, 2024 cases remain far lower than at the 2022 peak. At that time, there were over 400 daily cases, totaling 11,000 per month.
In contrast, U.S. mpox cases have stayed under 250 monthly since October 2023. Still, the number of mpox cases in 2024 has almost doubled 2023’s total. Last year saw approximately 1,700 cases, while 2024 has recorded nearly 3,000.
How Dangerous Is Mpox?
The risk of mpox remains high in the most impacted countries. However, the WHO may soon decide mpox no longer qualifies as a global emergency.
Travel-related mpox cases will likely continue in non-endemic countries, including the U.S. However, large-scale outbreaks in developed countries remain improbable. Smaller household sizes, better sanitation, and advanced healthcare systems reduce these risks. Countries like the U.S. also lack zoonotic reservoirs–animals that transmit the virus.
Populations in non-endemic countries have little to no immunity to mpox. If the virus were to spread widely, risks for non-immune individuals could increase.
Mpox is primarily transmitted through close physical contact. Symptoms are usually mild but can include flu-like symptoms and pus-filled lesions. In rare cases, mpox can prove fatal.
How Can Mpox Be Prevented and Treated?
The first doses of mpox vaccines are set to roll out in November 2024. The WHO has also launched plans to accelerate vaccine and treatment distribution. Nearly 900,000 vaccines have already been delivered to Africa’s hardest-hit countries.
The JYNNEOS vaccine, with 85% efficacy, offers the best protection against mpox. Eligible individuals include gay, bisexual, and other men who engage in sexual activity with men. Transgender, non-binary, and gender-diverse individuals with risk factors may also qualify. Travelers to clade 1 mpox-endemic regions should consider vaccination if engaging in sexual activity with new partners.
Costs remain a significant barrier for many at-risk populations seeking vaccination. Insurance companies currently do not cover the vaccine, but may reimburse part of its cost. For some, the nearly $300 price per dose makes it inaccessible.
Men who have not disclosed their sexuality may avoid using insurance for vaccination. At-risk groups, including individuals with HIV, are also less likely to have insurance.
Starting January 1, 2025, insurance companies will be mandated to cover JYNNEOS vaccines. Travelers to endemic regions should consider travel and medical evacuation insurance. Consulting with a healthcare provider about strategies to prevent transmission is also recommended.
Global health activists are pushing for more accessible diagnostic testing. A recent letter urged manufacturers to lower test prices from $20 to $5. Activists argue that cheaper tests could boost testing rates in vulnerable countries. They also claim mpox tests can be produced for less than their current price.
Conclusion
Mpox cases have significantly decreased since their 2022 peak, but risks remain. The WHO’s upcoming meeting will determine if mpox is still a global emergency. Continued prevention, vaccination, and treatment are crucial to mitigating the effects of mpox.
Have an upcoming trip? Passport Health offers a wide variety of options to help keep you safe from disease, including vaccines. Call or book online to schedule your appointment today.
Logan Hamilton is a health and wellness freelance writer for hire. He’s passionate about crafting crystal-clear, captivating, and credible content that elevates brands and establishes trust. When not writing, Logan can be found hiking, sticking his nose in bizarre books, or playing drums in a local rock band. Find him at loganjameshamilton.com.
