As the World Health Organization (WHO) has called for increased vigilance against Monkeypox (Mpox), United Nations International Children’s Emergency Fund (UNICEF) has issued an urgent alert regarding the heightened risk for children, especially those who are malnourished or suffering from other illnesses.
The new variant of Mpox (clade Ib) is particularly concerning due to its potential for broader transmission, including among young children, especially in Africa. The Unicef said that in the fight against the outbreak, prioritising the needs of children is not only necessary but urgent.
The children’s body warned that children can be exposed to Mpox through close contact with symptomatic individuals, including parents or caregivers.
The virus spreads via contact with skin lesions, infectious bodily fluids, contaminated materials, respiratory droplets, and infected animals. Pregnant women can also pass the virus to their unborn babies.
Mpox symptoms are similar to but less severe than smallpox and include skin rash, fever, sore throat, headache, body aches, back pain, low energy, and swollen lymph nodes. The virus poses a significant threat in areas with widespread malnutrition, crowded living conditions, other infectious diseases, and limited healthcare access.
In India, while there have been no reported cases of Mpox so far this year, authorities are taking precautionary measures with the AIIMS, RML and LNJP already allocating designated sites for the treatment of the patients in case if any.
A 2022 study by Sir Ganga Ram Hospital, Delhi, noted the potential for Mpox resurgence in India due to the discontinuation of the smallpox vaccine, which had historically provided 85% protection.
The study was published in the Indian Journal of Medical Microbiology. In 2022, at least 14 people with the disease were reported in the country out of which 9 were reported in the National Capital.
Dr Chand Wattal, corresponding author and chairperson, ICMI, had said that waning immunity in humans due to the discontinuation of the smallpox vaccine established the scope for the resurgence of Monkeypox, demonstrated by the re-emergence of the outbreak after a break of 30-40 years.
India declared itself smallpox-free in 1979 while it was officially eradicated all over the world around 1979-80.
The study highlighted concerns about waning immunity and the potential for Mpox to re-emerge after a long absence.
