The US government is taking urgent action to address the growing threat of a severe Mpox strain known as Clade 1B, which has caused a significant number of deaths and is raising concerns globally. With plans to increase testing, improve vaccine accessibility, and boost monitoring efforts, the nation is bracing for a potential outbreak. Here’s what you need to know.
Preparing for the Arrival of a Deadly Mpox Strain
The United States is ramping up preparations to handle the possible arrival of the more severe Clade 1B strain of Mpox, which has already killed nearly 1,000 people in the Democratic Republic of Congo and other parts of Africa. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), over 24,800 cases of Clade 1B have been reported globally.
As the virus spreads, the WHO declared the outbreak a global public health emergency, and the situation has worsened with confirmed cases in Sweden, Thailand, and Pakistan.
Clade 1B: A Severe Threat
Clade 1B is known for its severe impact, with the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) warning that it can be fatal in up to 10% of cases. Recent death rates have ranged between 1% and 3.3%, but the potential for a higher fatality rate remains a significant concern. The US experienced a surge of Mpox cases in 2022 due to the less severe Clade 2, but Clade 1B poses a far greater risk.
US Government Gearing Up for Cases
With infections rising in Africa, US officials are working to prevent the virus from spreading on American soil. Senior members of the Biden administration have been preparing for the arrival of Clade 1B for months, following its rapid spread in the Democratic Republic of Congo and neighboring regions.
Efforts to enhance Mpox surveillance are underway, including expanded wastewater analysis to detect potential outbreaks early. Health authorities are also reaching out to the medical community to educate healthcare workers on recognizing Clade 1B symptoms and understanding how it spreads.
Testing and Diagnosis Improvements
Testing for Mpox is being prioritized across the country. The CDC has made it easier for doctors to order Mpox tests, which can be processed through national laboratories. If a patient tests negative for Clade 2, doctors can make a presumptive diagnosis of Clade 1B, though the CDC will need to confirm the results officially.
Vaccination Efforts for High-Risk Groups
Health officials are encouraging individuals at the highest risk—particularly gay and bisexual men—to get vaccinated against Mpox. The Jynneos vaccine, which is administered in two doses, has been proven highly effective against both Clade 1 and Clade 2.
Those with health insurance can access the vaccine at major pharmacy chains, such as Walmart. For those without insurance, free vaccinations are available at public health departments and community health centers.
Protecting Public Health
Mpox primarily spreads through close, skin-to-skin contact, and causes flu-like symptoms along with painful lesions. The Biden administration’s increased efforts, from expanded testing to vaccination campaigns, aim to manage and contain this more dangerous strain before it can become a widespread threat in the US.
With Clade 1B posing a potentially severe risk, staying informed and taking preventative steps will be crucial in protecting yourself and your community.