Emerging danger: New Mpox variant could soon hit Europe

The World Health Organization (WHO) is openly concerned about the new variant of the hazardous Mpox virus (commonly known as monkeypox). Its arrival on the European continent might be just a matter of time, reports "Die Zeit."

According to the World Health Organization (WHO), the new, troubling variant of the Mpox virus could also reach Europe. It is currently circulating in the Democratic Republic of the Congo. - But that wouldn't be my biggest worry – says WHO Emergency Response Coordinator Mike Ryan, quoted by the portal "Die Zeit." He emphasized that during the outbreak in 2022, wealthy countries showed that they have the resources to prevent the spread of the virus.

My biggest concern is that the disease spreads among populations experiencing high levels of poverty, with limited access to medical care – says Ryan.

Infections with the Clade 1b variant are much more severe than previous variants. The symptoms are not only more severe, but they also last significantly longer. Infection with the virus is particularly dangerous for pregnant women, as it leads to miscarriages and also poses a threat to children's lives. Estimating the scale of the problem is difficult because only the most severe cases are being reported to doctors.

The Clade 1b likely appeared in September of last year. Authorities indicate that it was initially transmitted by sex workers. However, it currently spreads through ordinary contact with an infected person.

We are very concerned about the epidemic – says WHO Mpox expert Rosamund Lewis.

So far, the primary cause of monkeypox infections has been contact with wild animals or their meat. Now, it spreads between humans. The Clade II variant was responsible for the global epidemic in 2022.

In the majority of cases, affected individuals had mild symptoms. The predominant symptom was a rash that covered mainly the genital area, hands, and feet. In the new Ib variant, the entire body, including the scalp, can be covered with pea-sized pimples.

Infected individuals may experience a fever exceeding 38 degrees Celsius, as well as swollen lymph nodes. They may also suffer from headaches and back pains accompanied by weakness. Treatment for Mpox infection is symptomatic. Patients are given painkillers, fever reducers, and antipruritics.