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Research Project: Viral Ecology of Henipaviruses in Endemic Settings and Intervention Strategies to Prevent their Spread to Domestic Animals

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Title: Mpox in Central Africa: Complex epidemiology requires a constellation approach

Author
item HALBROOK, MEGAN - University Of California (UCLA)
item MAKANGARA-CIGOLO, JEAN CLAUDE - Institute National Research Biomedical
item MERRITT, SYDNEY - University Of California (UCLA)
item HOFF, NICOLE - University Of California (UCLA)
item LISENBORGHS, LAURENS - Institute Of Tropical Medicine
item Hensley, Lisa
item VERCAUTEREN, KOEN - Institute Of Tropical Medicine
item MBALA-KINGEBENI, PLACIDE - Institute National Research Biomedical
item RIMOIN, ANNE - University Of California (UCLA)
item KINDRACHUK, JASON - University Of Manitoba

Submitted to: npj Viruses
Publication Type: Peer Reviewed Journal
Publication Acceptance Date: 12/6/2024
Publication Date: N/A
Citation: N/A

Interpretive Summary: With the concurrent mpox outbreaks being reported in the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) in 2024, and the evolving risk factors associated with both Clade 1a and 1b mpox, an effective and long lasting mpox response is of the utmost importance. This commentary discusses the systemic issues of mpox endemicity in the DRC and offers insight on control and mitigation efforts in this challenging global health context.

Technical Abstract: With the concurrent mpox outbreaks being reported in the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) in 2024, and the evolving risk factors associated with both Clade 1a and 1b mpox, an effective and long lasting mpox response is of the utmost importance. Current epidemiologic understandings of mpox in Central Africa have been confounded by underlying poor health and healthcare conditions. As mpox transmission dynamics continue to evolve public health response, particularly regarding vaccination, must take into account the social and economic context of the DRC. Investments in development, poverty relief, and infrastructure will be essential in curbing the spread of mpox in this region long term.