The global fight against ampox and the race for effective vaccines, ET HealthWorld

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By Prarthana Sharma

according to World Health Organization According to the WHO, more than 70,000 cases have been reported worldwide, and the virus has spread to more than 80 countries, posing a significant public health threat. Vaccine development is important not only to vaccinate infected people but also to prevent further transmission or mutation of the virus.

Current MPox outbreak vs. other virus outbreaks

highlighting that International Partnerships Transparency is key to controlling the ampox outbreak, said Dr Rakesh Gupta, senior consultant, Indraprastha Apollo Hospital, “The ampox outbreak can be controlled through transparency and international cooperation. This will help in controlling the spread of the virus.” Rapid Global Assessment “It also supports collective responses by providing data on known cases (epidemiological data), all virus sequences (genomic sequences), and clinical settings.” In addition, it promotes equitable access to diagnostics and vaccines while accelerating research. For example, to enhance preparedness and response, the WHO is proposing a real-time data-sharing mechanism, Standardization of protocolsand strengthening global health security.

Three key tasks are needed in fighting outbreaks: breaking down political barriers, combating misinformation, and Establishing communication channels On all fronts. Governments must build strong coalitions Non-governmental organisations (NGOs) and the private sector to respond effectively to global health threats.

Recognizing the clinical features of MPox and improving early detection

Mpox has Distinctive clinical features Which differentiates it from other viral diseases. According to Dr Ankita Baidya, Consultant, Infectious Diseases, Manipal Hospitals Dwarka, the unique body rashes and swollen lymph nodes seen in ampox differentiate it from other viral diseases like chickenpox or measles. ampox is spread through close contact and sexual transmission. Early detection is possible by suspecting its presence in time and testing the vesicular fluid for the virus.

Mpox rash grows Going through several stages, including papules, vesicles, pustules, and crusts, often starting on the face, hands, and feet. Swollen lymph nodes are usually accompanied by fever, chills, fatigue, headache, and other symptoms. Early detection can be achieved by strengthening Public health surveillance Training systems and training of healthcare providers to recognise symptoms of ampox Apply diagnostic standards. Rapid diagnostic tests such as PCR, along with efficient contact tracing, are critical in managing outbreaks among vulnerable populations.

Assessing the possibility of an ampox outbreak

Comparing Mpox to COVID-19, Dr. Shilpa Bhatte, MD, MBBS, Chief Program Officer at Curebe, said that Mpox has a lower risk of becoming a pandemic than SARS-CoV-2, as it is usually spread through physical and physical contact, and its severity is less in comparison. She said, “Compared to severe infectious diseases like SARS-CoV-2, Mpox is less likely to become a pandemic. The disease spreads mostly through personal contacts, making it less severe than smallpox. The outbreak has been effectively controlled through public health interventions such as contact tracing and isolating infected individuals; however, new variants, global travel, unequal access to vaccines, or lack of awareness may increase the associated risks. Mpox pandemic is not on the horizon, but vigilance and effective measures are still required.”

While ampox is less likely to become a global disease than highly infectious diseases such as SARS-CoV-2, which spread via airborne droplets and can be more deadly, several factors can increase the risk. These factors include possible mutations, unequal access to vaccines and healthcare, public awareness issues, and international travel. Therefore, effective health measures are necessary to manage these risks and prevent any escalation in the epidemic. Vigilance, active surveillance, and systematic threat assessment are essential for prevention.

The role of transparency and global cooperation

The MPox outbreak can be controlled through transparency and international collaboration. Dr Rakesh Gupta, Senior Consultant, Internal Medicine at Indraprastha Apollo Hospital, explains, “Controlling the MPox outbreak requires transparency and international collaboration. Sharing epidemiological data, genomic sequences and clinical information enables rapid global assessment and coordinated responses. This facilitates equitable access to diagnostics and vaccines and accelerates research. Better real-time data sharing, protocol standardisation and global health security are critical to enhance preparedness and response.”

Breaking down political barriers, combating misinformation, and establishing open communication lines are crucial to managing outbreaks. Governments must forge strong partnerships with NGOs and the private sector to effectively respond to global health threats.

Challenges in low-resource settings and global support

Dr. Rishikesh Desai, Consultant, Department of Medicine, Sir Ganga Ram Hospital, said, “Serum Institute of India has made great progress in developing the Mpox vaccine. They have said that updates and good news will come within a year. This is exciting news in the fight against the virus.”

Addressing ampox outbreaks is challenging, especially in low-resource settings. Dr Rahul Tambe, Senior Consultant, Internal Medicine, Nanavati Max Superspeciality Hospital, Mumbai, commented, “There is no definitive treatment for ampox; however, supportive care, including pain management, hydration and treating secondary bacterial infections, is important. The antiviral agent, tecovirimat, has shown some promising results, but is difficult to obtain. Controlling epidemics and minimising their impact depends on early detection of outbreaks, supportive care and vaccination, such as the smallpox vaccine, which provides cross-protection.”

In areas lacking healthcare infrastructure, managing ampox outbreaks presents many challenges. The virus spreads primarily through close contact with infected individuals or animals, and its variable clinical presentation complicates diagnosis and prevention. The outbreak has exposed weaknesses in the healthcare infrastructure, including low diagnosis and poor availability of antiviral treatment.

International collaboration and contribution to public health initiatives

Vaccine development is crucial in controlling the ampox outbreak. Dr RS Mishra, Principal Director, Internal Medicine, Fortis Escorts, said, “The ampox vaccines include JYNNEOS (Imvamune or Imvanex) and ACAM2000. JYNNEOS is considered a better option due to its fewer side effects.” Vaccination is essential to control the outbreak, especially in high-risk groups.

According to health experts, public health actions, such as promoting hygienic behaviour, issuing travel warnings, and initiating vaccination programmes, are essential to control the MPox infection. Public education about the symptoms and signs of the virus and how it spreads can help prevent further infection and reduce the stigma associated with MPox. Additionally, screening for international travel and surveillance can detect potential outbreaks before they become uncontrollable. Efficiently dealing with MPox outbreaks requires comprehensive government policies that facilitate global partnerships to ensure good health for all.

While MPox poses public health challenges, advances in vaccine production and international collaboration offer many ways to manage it. Scientists at the Serum Institute of India are working on developing vaccines against the disease. Effective management requires continued research, prompt vaccine distribution, and strong public health systems to control and prevent its spread. Through global unity and vigilance, we can reduce the impact of MPox and protect health around the world.

  • Published on September 2, 2024 at 12:35 PM IST

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