Sierra Leone Declares Mpox State of Emergency: A Wake-Up Call for the World?
Sierra Leone's recent declaration of a state of emergency due to a surge in mpox cases should serve as a stark reminder of the unpredictable nature of infectious diseases and the potential for devastating outbreaks. With two cases reported in less than four days and the unique circumstances of infection—no known contact with infected animals or other sick individuals in either instance, save for limited travel to the airport town of Lungi in one patient's history— this isn't just another news story; it's a warning sign for the entire globe. The World Health Organization (WHO) and global health authorities need to pay very close attention to the events unfolding here, ensuring swift action.
Understanding the Mpox Virus: More Than Just Monkeypox
Mpox, formerly and still often called monkeypox, is a viral zoonotic disease— meaning it can spread from animals to humans. While the majority of cases historically have been in central and West Africa, linked to close contact with infected animals, recent outbreaks highlight a worrying change in the virus's transmission dynamics. For example, the 2022 outbreaks conclusively demonstrated that the virus can spread through close contact between humans, including sexual transmission. This discovery prompted the WHO to formally declare the situation a Public Health Emergency of International Concern.
Sierra Leone's Recent Mpox Cases: A Cause for Concern?
The recent cases in Sierra Leone, alarmingly, showed no clear contact with sick animals or humans for both individuals outside of a brief airport visit in only one case. This means we are facing a scenario where community spread might be already happening unnoticed. Contact tracing is therefore incredibly challenging and the need to rapidly scale-up the necessary responses becomes apparent, both in terms of diagnostic tools and treatment, but also in education and communication regarding disease prevention.
Lessons from the Past: Ebola and Mpox
Sierra Leone's history is marred by the catastrophic 2014 Ebola outbreak, one of the deadliest in history. This devastating episode brought many lessons, highlighting challenges with surveillance, response and care, that inform us about our mpox strategies and preparations now. Not only were nearly 4,000 deaths reported in Sierra Leone alone (out of the over 11,000 recorded globally), but a shocking 7% of their already fragile healthcare workforce was lost. To ensure preparedness this time, we cannot overlook such history.
A Global Health Crisis: What Now?
The sudden rise in mpox cases and community spread highlights several alarming patterns for health professionals and governing bodies to keep in mind. Without urgent collaborative effort and increased investment, the repercussions for communities at large might exceed predictions, not just in Sierra Leone, but potentially worldwide. In short: We've had warnings. We are in a public health crisis, and we need a global response.
Take Away Points
- Sierra Leone's declaration of a state of emergency for mpox should serve as a wake-up call regarding the unpredictable nature of infectious diseases.
- Mpox can spread via human contact, as was shown through 2022 outbreaks
- Lessons from the devastating 2014 Ebola outbreak must inform current mpox response strategies.
- Immediate actions to address the challenges that remain must happen collaboratively.