A surge in mpox (formerly known as monkeypox) cases has forced the World Health Organization (WHO) to issue a stark warning by declaring a public health emergency of international concern (PHEIC). This alarming decision mirrors the fear and uncertainty seen during the emergence of HIV in its early days. As cases escalate, scientists and public health officials are urging swift action to combat the spread of this virus and its stigma.

The WHO's declaration aims to expedite access to vital resources such as testing, vaccinations, and therapeutic drugs in the most affected regions. To kickstart containment efforts, the organization has already allocated $1.5 million from its contingency fund, primarily targeting the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) and surrounding countries, which are grappling with a new variant identified as clade IB. This particular strain emerged in January 2023 and has alarmingly spread to 12 additional countries, raising profound concerns about its transmissibility and severity. In fact, clade IB is considered even more threatening than the previous 2022 outbreak primarily attributed to clade II, which caused around 100,000 cases globally. Notably, clade I has historically shown higher mortality rates than its counterpart, intensifying the urgency behind the WHO's response.

Currently, no specific treatments have been approved to combat mpox infections. Patients typically receive supportive care aimed at alleviating symptoms such as pain and fever. For those who experience severe symptoms, antiviral drugs like cidofovir or tecovirimat—approved for treating other viral infections like smallpox—are utilized, though their effectiveness and longevity against mpox remain uncertain. To truly control this frightening virus, an mpox vaccine is essential, and efforts are underway. China is leading the charge with the Shanghai Institute of Biological Products developing a promising vaccine candidate based on a live, attenuated strain known as MVA, which has recently gained approval to enter clinical trials. This could mark a significant step in the global fight against mpox.

According to analysis from GlobalData's trials intelligence platform, there are currently 42% more smallpox-related clinical trials than for mpox—both areas reflecting a low overall count in research activity. A marked increase in mpox trials was noted during the 2022 outbreak, but numbers sharply dropped in 2023. As pharmaceutical companies respond to the latest figures of mpox cases, anticipations are high for a resurgence in trial numbers during 2024. Despite an overall increase of 88% in research from 2004 to the present, experts stress the need for amplified global efforts to establish a more stable foothold in managing this potentially deadly disease.

The clock is ticking. What does this mean for global health and preparedness? Could this be a sign of things to come? As we grasp for solutions, one thing is clear: the world must remain vigilant against the rising tide of mpox and the shadow of future pandemics.