WHO eyes 'targeted vaccination' for Mpox, unlike COVID's mass jab

By Al Mayadeen English
Source: Agencies
21 Aug 2024 10:42

WHO spokesperson Margaret Harris emphasizes that mass vaccination is not advisable, stressing the need for a focused approach where transmission is occurring.

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An undated photo shows a sign for the World Health Organization (AFP)

The World Health Organization (WHO) has suggested a "targeted vaccination" approach to combat Mpox, recommending localized immunization in areas where the virus is present rather than widespread vaccination. They argue that controlling Mpox is more manageable than addressing COVID-19.

“It's not recommended for mass vaccination; that's very important. It really needs to be targeted vaccination where the virus is transmitting,” WHO spokesperson Margaret Harris said, as quoted by Anadolu news agency.

She highlighted the global focus on the virus' swift spread and mentioned that the Mpox virus comprises two genetic variants: Clade 1 and Clade 2.

Harris voiced apprehension about the new Clade 1b strain of the virus, which emerged last year, noting its rapid transmission and high mortality rate, particularly among children. She highlighted that the virus' swift spread is a significant concern, with 2024 seeing more cases than 2023 and the previous year having already recorded a higher number of Mpox cases. Additionally, she pointed out that while Mpox cases have risen in the eastern Democratic Republic of Congo, the virus has also spread to Burundi, Rwanda, Uganda, and Kenya.

“We are seeing a higher fatality rate. It's around 3% and in really vulnerable groups, like small children. It's higher than that. We're particularly concerned about the effects on small children. Now it's important to understand that the populations that it's been spreading through rapidly are people who have been displaced by conflict. They're in a very precarious situation,” she stressed.

WHO official: Mpox is not the new COVID

A World Health Organization (WHO) official emphasized on Tuesday that Mpox, whether it's the new or old strain, is not comparable to COVID-19, as authorities have effective measures in place to control its spread.

"We can and must tackle Mpox together," said Hans Kluge, WHO regional director for Europe, in a media briefing.

"So will we choose to put the systems in place to control and eliminate Mpox globally? Or we will enter another cycle of panic and neglect? How we respond now and in the years to come will prove a critical test for Europe and the world," he added.

It is worth noting that Mpox, a viral infection causing pus-filled lesions and flu-like symptoms, is typically mild but can be fatal in some cases.