The World Health Organization (WHO) has declared Mpox a public health emergency of international concern (PHEIC) as of 14 August 2024, amid a rising number of infections in the Democratic Republic of the Congo and several African nations.
This declaration represents the highest level of global alert, indicating the serious threat this virus poses to countries around the world. Remarkably, this marks the second PHEIC declaration regarding mpox within the last two years. The ongoing outbreak is attributed to clade I, known for its increased transmissibility and severity, following the earlier clade II outbreak that prompted a global health emergency from July 2022 to May 2023.
Currently, no cases of clade 1b mpox have been reported in the Caribbean or surrounding areas, including the United States, United Kingdom, Canada, and Latin America. Travel from the Democratic Republic of Congo has been limited, with no direct commercial flights operating to the Caribbean.
The Caribbean Public Health Agency (CARPHA) is actively monitoring the situation. While the risk level to the Caribbean population from mpox clade 1b remains low to moderate—with no confirmed cases in CARPHA Member States—the emergence of the first clade 1b case outside Africa signals a call for vigilance among public health authorities. Enhanced surveillance and monitoring of incoming travelers are essential, along with a coordinated regional and international response, according to a CARPHA statement.
Mpox, previously known as monkeypox, is a viral disease that can be transmitted between people and from infected animals. Transmission can occur through direct contact with bodily fluids or contaminated materials. Symptoms typically include a skin rash or mucosal lesions lasting 2 to 4 weeks, accompanied by fever, headaches, muscle aches, and swollen lymph nodes.
Two mpox vaccines have received approval from WHO-listed national regulatory authorities, and efforts are underway to secure Emergency Use Listing to facilitate vaccine distribution in resource-limited regions.
CARPHA has established mpox testing capabilities at its Medical Microbiology Laboratory and is working with regional health partners to prepare for any potential surge in cases. Collaboration with the CARICOM Implementation Agency for Crime and Security (IMPACS) will enhance passenger information monitoring for individuals arriving from affected countries.
In light of these developments, CARPHA has encouraged Member States to enhance their vigilance and implement the following measures: promptly report any imported mpox cases, improve surveillance systems for early detection, conduct thorough investigations, and promote public education on mpox as a re-emerging zoonosis.
Member States are also urged to increase awareness among clinicians and health professionals, particularly regarding patients with rashes and recent travel histories linked to mpox-affected areas, while promoting effective prevention strategies for high-risk populations. CARPHA will continue to support Member States with guidance for their national response initiatives.
To mitigate exposure and spread of the virus, individuals should adhere to basic hand hygiene practices, stay informed about mpox risks, remain vigilant for any unusual rashes, avoid close contact with sick individuals, and steer clear of wild animals in endemic regions.
- Stay informed about the risk of mpox
- Watch for any unusual rashes or lesions on the body
- Avoid close contact with individuals showing mpox symptoms
- Steer clear of wild animals in areas where mpox is common
- Do not touch contaminated materials used by infected individuals
