To review the current mpox clade Ib outbreak situation, identify key challenges, and advocate for the integration of wastewater and environmental surveillance into response strategies.
Key Findings:
Mpox clade Ib has led to significant outbreaks in Africa, with over 57,942 cases reported, primarily in the DRC.
Clade Ib is more transmissible than clade Ia and poses a higher public health risk due to its spread in urban areas.
The outbreak has spread to urban areas and key travel hubs, increasing international spread risks, particularly in Kinshasa, Bujumbura, and Kampala.
Current mitigation efforts primarily focus on medical care and vaccination, neglecting WES, which could enhance outbreak management.
Interpretation:
The emergence of mpox clade Ib, particularly in urban settings, complicates outbreak management due to increased transmission rates and diverse population impacts, highlighting the need for enhanced surveillance strategies.
Limitations:
Testing challenges hinder accurate assessment of the outbreak's evolution, leading to potential underreporting of cases.
The exact contribution of various transmission routes remains unclear, complicating targeted public health interventions.
Conclusion:
Integrating wastewater and environmental surveillance into public health strategies is crucial for effectively managing the mpox clade Ib outbreak and preventing further spread.
by Ananda Tiwari, Thierry Kalonji, Taru Miller, Tim Van Den Bossche, Adriana Krolicka, Hypolite Muhindo-Mavoko, Patrick Mitashi, Marc Christian Tahita, Rolf Lood, Tarja Pitkänen, Vivi Maketa
