The inactivity of international global health mechanisms in combating mpox has caused astonishment in the scientific community, according to Alexandre Naime, scientific coordinator of the Brazilian Society of Infectious Diseases. In an interview with CNN This Sunday (25), the specialist highlighted that the disease has been known for more than five decades, having been described for the first time in 1970.
Naime expressed perplexity at the lack of effective action to contain the spread of mpox, especially considering the long period since its identification. “The surprise that you receive this information is our surprise as a scientific community to see the inactivity of international global health mechanisms to stop this disease,” said the infectious disease specialist.
Origin and transmission of mpox
The mpox virus, as explained by Naime, is of zoonotic origin, meaning that its main form of transmission occurs from animals to humans. The main vectors are non-human primates, small monkeys and rodents. Transmission to humans usually occurs in regions close to African villages, where contact with these animals is more frequent, either through proximity or consumption.
‘This close contact causes children, adolescents and adults to become infected, and then human-to-human transmission begins,’ the specialist explained. Naime also highlighted that the disease mainly affects the central-west region of Africa, with emphasis on the Democratic Republic of Congo.
Vaccine exists but is underused
A crucial point raised by Naime is the existence of a vaccine against mpox, even before the 2022 outbreak. However, he regrets that it was never implemented in a way that would address the problem at its root, in the most affected African countries.
The lack of an effective preventive approach in the disease’s source areas highlights a significant gap in global public health strategies. This situation highlights the need for more coordinated and proactive action by international health organizations to prevent future outbreaks and protect vulnerable populations.
This content was originally published in Inactivity of international bodies to stop mpox causes astonishment, says infectologist on the CNN Brasil website.
Source: CNN Brasil
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