South Africa’s Mpox Outbreak: Separating Fact from Fiction
As the number of mpox cases in South Africa continues to rise, it’s essential to separate fact from fiction and debunk common misconceptions about the disease. In this article, we’ll delve into the latest information on mpox, its transmission, symptoms, and treatment options, as well as the false claims that have emerged during the current outbreak.
The Name Change: Why Mpox?
In 2022, the World Health Organization (WHO) recommended that the name "mpox" replace "monkeypox." This change was made to avoid racist and stigmatizing language associated with the old name. The WHO’s guidelines for naming diseases aim to minimize unnecessary offense or negative impact on animal welfare, travel, trade, and more.
Transmission and Symptoms
Mpox is primarily spread through physical contact with an infected person, although it can also be transmitted through contaminated objects and from animals to humans. The most prominent symptom is a rash, which can be accompanied by fever, headache, swollen lymph nodes, and fatigue. Not every rash is mpox, and a diagnosis can only be confirmed through laboratory tests.
Vaccination and Treatment Options
There are two vaccines available to prevent mpox: Jynneos (also known as Imvamune or Imvanex) and ACAM2000. While mass vaccination is not currently recommended, South Africa is trying to source vaccines to protect high-risk groups. An antiviral drug called Tecovirimat has been acquired to treat severe mpox cases, although it is not a vaccine.
Who is at Risk?
Anyone can catch mpox, but certain groups are more vulnerable. These include men who have sex with men (MSM), sex workers, health workers, and lab workers, as well as individuals with undiagnosed or unmanaged HIV. The South African health department has prioritized these groups for vaccination.
False Claims and Stigma
Previous false claims about mpox have included the notion that it spreads faster among or only affects MSM. This claim can perpetuate existing stigmas about HIV, sexual intercourse between men, and mpox. Journalists, health officials, and social media users must ensure that they share accurate information about mpox to avoid reinforcing these stigmas.
Conclusion
As the mpox outbreak continues to unfold in South Africa, it’s crucial to rely on credible sources of information and to debunk false claims. By separating fact from fiction, we can work together to combat misinformation and promote public health efforts. Remember to verify breaking news and claims before sharing them, and seek information from trustworthy expert sources.
