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Dr Gérald Kierzek (Medical Director of Doctissimo)
As health authorities closely monitor the new variant of mpox, Gabriel Attal stated on his Twitter account that he was placing the “health system on maximum alert”. Sweden has reported a case on its soil, and the WHO assumes that other cases will be detected in Europe in the coming days. We take stock with Dr. Gérald Kierzek, emergency physician and medical director of Doctissimo.
The WHO is in full swing this August. Two days ago, on August 14, the organization triggered its maximum international alert level in the face of the resurgence of cases of mpox (formerly monkey pox) on the African continent.
8,465 cases of this disease have been recorded in 16 African countries since January 2022, with a 160% increase in 2024 and a new variant in play. A sharp increase that is worrying. But it is a European case that is making headlines in the media today.
One case detected in Sweden, other European cases “probable” to come
On Thursday, August 15, Sweden reported a case of the latest variant (clade 1b) on its soil. “The affected person was infected during a stay in a region of Africa where there is a major outbreak of MPOX subtype clade 1”explained Olivia Wigzell, the acting head of the Swedish agency, during a press conference.
More contagious and more dangerous, this is the first time that this variant has been seen outside Africa. But it should not be the last.It is likely that further imported cases of clade 1 will be recorded in the European region in the coming days and weeks.”the WHO’s European branch said in a statement.
“It is imperative that we do not stigmatize travelers or countries/regions. Only by working together, sharing data and taking necessary public health measures can we control the spread of this virus.” added the organization.
A virus that is transmitted from human to human
Why does the event seem to be growing more than in 2022? This new clade 1b variant seems more virulent than the old one and is affecting more and more people in Africa, while the health and vaccination situation is not optimal and cannot keep up with this surge in cases.
““MPOX is a viral disease that spreads not only from animals to humans, but also through close physical contact with an infected person.” recalls Dr. Gérald Kierzek, medical director of Doctissimo. “The recent detection of a variant in Sweden highlights the increased risk of transmission in Europe, prompting health authorities to prepare for a possible increase in cases.”
When to worry?
For our doctor, it is not a question of giving in to panic but of reacting with full knowledge of the facts, particularly if you are returning from a trip to an affected area.
“It is advisable to be concerned if symptoms such as skin rashesof the fever or some muscle pain manifest after contact with an infected person or after travel to areas where MPOX is endemic. Clinical signs can appear within days of exposure, and it is crucial to consult a health professional if you have these symptoms.”
To minimize the risk of contamination, it is also recommended to follow these precautions:
- Avoid close contact with people with symptoms of COPD or who have recently been in affected areas;
- Have good hygiene by washing your hands frequently and using disinfectants;
- Wear a mask when in contact with potentially infected people;
- Avoid touching potentially contaminated surfaces or objects;
- Stay informed of recommendations from local health authorities and WHO regarding MPOX and preventive measures, particularly regarding vaccination.