Outbreaks of mpox, seasonal respiratory virus concern health organizations

Editor's Note

The World Health Organization (WHO) has declared the ongoing mpox outbreak in Africa a global health emergency, according to a CNN article published a day after the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) warned about increasing activity for seasonal respiratory virus parvovirus B19.

WHO issued the emergency designation after a more severe strain of mpox, clade Ib, spread beyond the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), CNN reported August 14. Overall, the outbreak has resulted in more than 17,000 cases and 500 deaths in 13 countries, mostly in the DRC.

Mpox, a viral disease that spreads through close contact, was traditionally confined to Central and West Africa but began spreading to Europe and North America in 2022, according to the CNN report. WHO had previously declared mpox a global health emergency in 2022 but ended that status in May 2023.

In an August 13 report detailing CDC warnings about parvovirus B19, CNN notes that the disease is on the rise after significant reductions in infections (and corresponding loss of immunity) during COVID-19 pandemic. A common virus spread by respiratory droplets, the disease often causes no symptoms or presents in two phases, beginning with fever, aches, and malaise followed by rashes and joint pain. Pregnancy as well as chronic hemolytic conditions and weakened immune systems are at particular risk of severe complications.

Although there is no vaccine or specific treatment for parvovirus B19, most cases clear up on their own, CNN reports. CDC recommends at-risk populations to wear a mask around other people and seek medical care immediately for symptoms.