A new and highly transmissible strain of mpox has emerged in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), sparking fears of a wider outbreak.
This clade Ib variant, deadlier than previously known strains, is causing significant illness and death, particularly among children.
Researchers warn that the virus’ ability to spread through both sexual and non-sexual contact presents a significant challenge.
The outbreak began in September 2023 among sex workers in the remote mining town of Kamituga.
Unlike previous outbreaks, which primarily affected individuals through contact with infected animals, clade Ib spreads readily through sexual contact between heterosexual individuals.
This development highlights a concerning mutation within the virus.
Clade Ib carries a much higher mortality rate compared to other strains.
Researchers estimate that 5% of adults and a staggering 10% of children infected with this variant succumb to the illness.
The disease also manifests differently, causing “horrendous whole body rashes” unlike the more localized lesions seen in previous outbreaks.
The ability of clade Ib to transmit through non-sexual contact further complicates efforts to contain the outbreak.
Cases of transmission within families and between children playing together raise concerns about the virus’ potential for rapid spread within communities.
Researchers are particularly alarmed by the high rate of transmission from mothers or caregivers to children.
Additionally, the strain has been linked to numerous miscarriages, prompting investigations into its long-term impact on fertility.
The severity of the outbreak and the unknown aspects of clade Ib echo the early stages of the COVID-19 pandemic.
Researchers acknowledge many “important unknowns” about the new strain, emphasizing the need for urgent research and global preparedness.
With a significant portion of the 384 mpox-related deaths in DR Congo this year being children, the international community is urged to take immediate action to prevent further spread.
