Latest news with #mpox
Zawya
2 days ago
- Health
- Zawya
Sierra Leone bolters mpox response: World Health Organization (WHO) leads groundbreaking genomic surveillance and bioinformatics training
In a strategic initiative aimed at enhancing mpox outbreak response and genomic surveillance capacity, the Central Public Health Reference Laboratory (CPHRL) in Freetown hosted the mpox Genomics and Bioinformatics training workshop from 23rd – 27th June 2025. The event was organized under the theme: 'Strengthening Genomic Surveillance Capacity for mpox Response in Sierra Leone,' with technical and financial support from the World Health Organization (WHO AFRO and WHO Sierra Leone). The training program targeted 15 participants, including laboratory scientists, public health professionals, and epidemiologists from across Sierra Leone. Despite reporting over 4,400 confirmed cases of mpox as of 27th June 2025, Sierra Leone has performed genomic characterization on only approximately 2.5% of these cases (108 sequences), representing a significant limitation in understanding viral evolution and informing targeted public health interventions. Currently, these genomic data are deposited in international repositories such as Pathoplexus, GISAID, and NCBI Virus; however, the disparity between outbreak detection and genomic data generation hampers real-time surveillance efforts. The Ministry of Health and Sanitation (MoHS) and the Sierra Leone National Public Health Agency (SLNPHA) of Sierra Leone have prioritized strengthening genomic surveillance to enable rapid outbreak detection, track viral transmission, and inform policy decisions. Allan Campbell, Laboratory Lead at CPHRL, emphasized the significance of this training, stating, 'This marks a pivotal moment in Sierra Leone's national response to mpox. The initiative addresses the substantial bioinformatics capacity gap and establishes a foundation for sustainable genomic surveillance that can directly inform public health actions.' The workshop aligns with the objectives outlined in the WHO African Region (AFRO) Joint Continental mpox Response Plan 2.0, focusing on intensification, integration, and establishing a sustainable legacy in genomic epidemiology. The week-long workshop employed a multidisciplinary, hands-on approach combining didactic instruction, practical exercises, and group data analysis. The curriculum included: Day 1: Introduction to genomic surveillance principles, sequencing technologies, and foundational bioinformatics tools such as Linux and Conda environments. Day 2: Emphasis on sequencing data quality control (FastQC, MultiQC), read trimming (Fastp, Hostile), and genome assembly techniques utilizing reference-based (BWA, Cutadapt) and de novo (SPAdes) approaches. Day 3: Variant detection and analysis (SAMtools, FreeBayes, Snippy), consensus sequence generation (Bcftools), and genome annotation (SnpEff, VEP). Day 4: Phylogenetic analysis, clade classification (Nextclade, Nextstrain), and visualization using platforms such as GISAID, Pathoplexus, NCBI Virus, Microreact, iTOL, and Galaxy. Day 5: Integration of all components through a case study simulating mpox outbreak response, culminating in data interpretation and strategic planning. Walter Oguta, WHO AFRO EPI Analytics Specialist and the Lead Bioinformatics Trainer, underscored the practical value of the training, stating, 'Translating genomic data into actionable public health strategies is the ultimate goal. Our aim was to equip participants with both technical proficiency and confidence to utilize these tools effectively.' Doris Harding, Laboratory Pillar Lead at the SLNPHA, highlighted the broader implications: 'Strengthening our capacity for genomic surveillance is no longer optional—it is essential. This initiative empowers our scientists to respond more effectively to mpox and other emerging pathogens.' Similarly, Jonathan Greene, WHO Sierra Leone Laboratory Lead, articulated the importance of workforce development, asserting, 'Building a skilled, locally capable workforce is central to WHO's strategy for resilient health systems. The use of genomics is transforming outbreak intelligence, enabling a shift from reactive to proactive responses.' Dr. Ameh George, WHO Representative in Sierra Leone, emphasized the strategic importance of institutionalizing genomic surveillance: 'Genomics is redefining outbreak science. Sierra Leone must lead in generating and utilizing genomic data to inform policy and strengthen global health security. WHO remains committed to supporting this transformation.' Participants and stakeholders concurred that this training initiative constitutes a long-term investment in Sierra Leone's epidemic preparedness, response and resilience. By decentralizing sequencing capabilities and integrating genomic data into national decision-making processes, the program aspires to support regional efforts for early detection and rapid response to outbreaks. The workshop concluded with the issuance of certificates of completion and a networking session aimed at fostering collaboration and innovation in public health genomics. As Sierra Leone advances its surveillance infrastructure, the overarching goal remains to elevate genomic data from an underutilized resource to a central element of outbreak response and epidemic intelligence, thereby strengthening national and regional health security. Distributed by APO Group on behalf of World Health Organization - Sierra Leone.
Yahoo
6 days ago
- Health
- Yahoo
Bavarian Nordic Announces the Initiation of Clinical Trials of Mpox Vaccine in Infants and Pregnant Women
First studies to evaluate MVA-BN in infants under 2 years of age and pregnant and breastfeeding women. The multi-partner research project is aimed at expanding access to mpox vaccines for vulnerable populations. COPENHAGEN, Denmark, June 26, 2025 – Bavarian Nordic A/S (OMX: BAVA) announced today the initiation of the first of two clinical trials designed to support approval and use of the MVA-BN® mpox/smallpox vaccine in vulnerable populations: infants under 2 years of age and pregnant and breastfeeding women The first participants have been vaccinated in a study (NCT06844487), evaluating the safety and immunogenicity of MVA-BN in 344 infants aged 4-24 months. Recruitment has also started in a second study (NCT06844500), which is planned to enrol 359 women (pregnant or breastfeeding), also to be evaluated for safety and immunogenicity of MVA-BN. Both studies are conducted in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), the epicentre of the ongoing mpox outbreak, where infants and pregnant women remain highly vulnerable to mpox. Paul Chaplin, President & CEO of Bavarian Nordic, said: 'Through partnerships we have made significant advances already by expanding access to our mpox vaccine for children and adolescents. These new studies will fill the gap by providing important data about the use of MVA-BN in infants and pregnant women, and we applaud the study partners as well as the funding partners, EDCTP3 and CEPI for supporting this important work which could help support a label expansion for MVA-BN to include the most vulnerable populations.' Both studies are part of the PregInPoxVac research project, led by the University of Antwerp and the University of Kinshasa. The project is further supported by partners in Kenya (ACE Research) and Italy (Penta Foundation), funded by the European Union Global Health EDCTP3, the Coalition for Epidemic Preparedness Innovations (CEPI), and Bavarian Nordic. In addition, Bavarian Nordic is sponsoring a trial of MVA-BN in children aged 2-11 years, which has received funding support from CEPI. Topline results from this trial (NCT06549530) are anticipated in the third quarter of 2025. Once full results become available, these could potentially support regulatory approval of MVA-BN for younger children. About the mpox vaccineMVA-BN or Modified Vaccinia Ankara-Bavarian Nordic is the only non-replicating mpox vaccine approved in the U.S., Switzerland, Singapore and Mexico (marketed as JYNNEOS®), Canada (marketed as IMVAMUNE®), and the EU/EAA and United Kingdom (marketed as IMVANEX®). Originally developed as a smallpox vaccine in collaboration with the U.S. government to ensure the supply of a smallpox vaccine for the entire population, including immunocompromised individuals who are not recommended vaccination with traditional replicating smallpox vaccines, MVA-BN has been indicated for use in the general population in individuals considered at risk for smallpox or mpox infection. About Bavarian NordicBavarian Nordic is a global vaccine company with a mission to improve health and save lives through innovative vaccines. We are a preferred supplier of mpox and smallpox vaccines to governments to enhance public health preparedness and have a leading portfolio of travel vaccines. For more information, visit Forward-looking statements This announcement includes forward-looking statements that involve risks, uncertainties and other factors, many of which are outside of our control, that could cause actual results to differ materially from the results discussed in the forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements include statements concerning our plans, objectives, goals, future events, performance and/or other information that is not historical information. All such forward-looking statements are expressly qualified by these cautionary statements and any other cautionary statements which may accompany the forward-looking statements. We undertake no obligation to publicly update or revise forward-looking statements to reflect subsequent events or circumstances after the date made, except as required by law. Contact investors:Europe: Rolf Sass Sørensen, Vice President Investor Relations, rss@ Tel: +45 61 77 47 43US: Graham Morrell, Gilmartin Group, graham@ Tel: +1 781 686 9600 Contact media:Nicole Seroff, Vice President Corporate Communications, nise@ Tel: +45 53 88 06 03 Attachment 2025-06-26-enError in retrieving data Sign in to access your portfolio Error in retrieving data Error in retrieving data Error in retrieving data Error in retrieving data
Telegraph
6 days ago
- Health
- Telegraph
Hoping that viruses will go away is not enough – what is needed is continuous vigilance
In the public debate about pandemics, there is a belief as persistent as it is dangerous: the idea that epidemics end, that viruses – once contained – will disappear like a summer storm. But virology and epidemiology teach us that viruses do not disappear. Viruses adapt and mutate. They lurk in the folds of health inequalities and gaps in global surveillance. The latest alarm comes from Sierra Leone, which, after reporting its first two cases of mpox (formerly known as monkeypox) in January and declaring a public health emergency, is now facing a significant expansion of the epidemic. According to official sources, the country has reported over 3,000 confirmed cases and at least 15 deaths, with infections concentrated particularly in Western Area Urban, Western Area Rural, and Bombali. National health authorities, assisted by the WHO, Unicef, Africa CDC, and Gavi, have implemented a comprehensive emergency plan: strengthening surveillance, isolating cases, contact tracing, and launching awareness campaigns in schools and rural communities. As a result, 61,300 doses of the MVA-BN vaccine are expected to arrive in the coming weeks, and hundreds of health workers are being trained on diagnostic, treatment, and prevention protocols. This outbreak is becoming particularly worrisome due to the high vulnerability of children, who face a mortality risk up to four times higher than adults, especially in conditions of malnutrition or poor hygiene. On a continental scale, Africa is witnessing a rise in cases, with over 50,000 reported since the beginning of the year and more than 1,700 deaths. A critical factor is the viral clade involved. While full genomic mapping is still underway, the Africa CDC has reported that clade IIb, which has been associated with faster human-to-human transmission and potentially exponential spread, is likely the dominant strain in Sierra Leone. Despite Sierra Leone's improved emergency response capacity, gained during the 2014-2016 Ebola outbreak, healthcare infrastructure remains under strain. Patients often share beds, and clinical recognition delays persist, reflecting systemic pressures that could hamper containment efforts. Viruses return when the world 'moves on' Recent history, from Covid-19 to polio, shows that viruses do not 'die out' with a decree or a short-lived vaccination campaign. Zoonotic viruses, in particular, have an inherent ability to remain in circulation between animal and human hosts, often with different symptomatologies, and to re-emerge under favourable conditions. When surveillance loosens, when public health is underfunded, when the world 'moves on,' viruses return. Mpox is emblematic in this regard. For decades considered a virus confined to parts of central Africa, it has found new vectors, new susceptible populations, and new routes of transmission. Its recent mutations – linked to clade IIb – suggest adaptations to human infection that could make it endemic even in hitherto unaffected areas. Its apparent disappearance in high-income countries after the 2022-2023 wave is illusory: it was not a biological defeat, but a logistical suspension. Yet there are examples of good health behaviour from which the whole world should draw inspiration. In Tanzania in 2023, a small outbreak of Marburg virus – one of the world's deadliest pathogens, belonging to the same family as Ebola – was contained through a timely, transparent and coordinated response. The Tanzanian Ministry of Health quickly put in place measures for contact tracing, case isolation, effective public communication and cooperation with WHO. Similar efficiency was demonstrated in Rwanda, where preparedness for potential Marburg cases became a pillar of public health strategy, despite the fact that no outbreaks had occurred. Both countries invested in decentralised surveillance systems, widespread health training, and integration of human and veterinary medicine-embodying the concept of 'One Health'. These examples show that prevention is not a luxury of rich countries, but a strategic choice that is possible everywhere if supported by political will and real, non-paternalistic international cooperation. The new mpox outbreak in Sierra Leone must be interpreted in light of a fundamental fact: the transmissibility of viruses knows no geopolitical boundaries. Emerging diseases are now more than ever a global health security issue. A delay in diagnosis in Freetown can trigger an infection in Paris, London or Toronto within days. Yet funding for surveillance and diagnostic laboratories remains concentrated in a few areas. Large regions of Africa, Asia, and Latin America lack sentinel systems capable of detecting new threats in real time. Where the first patient is not identified, the virus has already won the first round. Continuing to hope that 'it won't happen here,' or that 'this time it is just a small outbreak,' is a mistake we have already paid dearly for. The mpox emergency in Sierra Leone is not yet a pandemic, but it is already an opportunity: to invest, to coordinate, to train. Epidemiological surveillance must become a structural and continuous investment, not an emergency response. We need a global network that not only responds, but predicts. One that recognises the global potential in seemingly minor outbreaks, and that funds local health systems not just to treat, but to monitor and to anticipate. Hoping that viruses will disappear is an understandable but naive wish. The only scientifically sound response is permanent, equitable, multilevel surveillance. We can no longer afford to ignore weak signals. Every contained outbreak is a shared victory; every ignored outbreak is a global defeat waiting to happen. Francesco Branda is an Adjunct professor at the Faculty of Medicine and Surgery at Campus Bio-Medico University of Rome Protect yourself and your family by learning more about Global Health Security
Irish Times
25-06-2025
- Health
- Irish Times
Ireland's STI clinics struggling to cater for increasing demand
There is 'inequitable access' to public services for sexually-transmitted infections (STIs), as clinics work at capacity and are 'struggling to cater for increasing demand', a new strategy has found. On Wednesday, the Department of Health published its new National Sexual Health Strategy for 2025 to 2030, which highlighted priorities in terms of increasing access to free contraception, and expanding capacity for STIs, including the home STI testing service. According to the strategy, there are insufficient staff resources and clinic time, resulting in increased waiting times at public STI clinics. 'The challenges posed by emerging STIs, including mpox, have put further pressure on existing constrained services, highlighting the need for additional capacity in our STI clinics to support greater service resilience, and surge capacity,' the document says. READ MORE However, the introduction of a free home STI testing service is estimated to have increased testing capacity by about 33 per cent. The report states that access to pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP), which prevents HIV/Aids, has increased significantly since it was introduced in 2019. There were 1,763 people accessing PrEP in 2020, which rose to 6,974 by the final quarter of last year. 'While demand for the PrEP service continues to grow, many PrEP services are reaching (or have reached) capacity,' the report added. The strategy sets out a number of areas it seeks to address in a bid to improve the sexual health of the island. It is envisaged free contraception, which is currently available to those aged 17 to 35, will be extended to those up to 55 years old, and that STI testing will be increased. The strategy said a model of care will be developed for sexual health services, focusing on: prevention; diagnosis; treatment; information and surveillance for STIs and HIV; and on 'improving geographic equity'. Access to vaccines that support sexual health will also be improved. [ STIs on the rise: 'It's seen as something shameful or dirty, or they're embarrassed to be going to a clinic' Opens in new window ] However, the plan also highlights 'potential challenges' to realising the strategic plan due to the country being in a 'period of significant and ongoing change'. These challenges include: demographic changes; increased incidence of chronic conditions and the spectrum of disability and neurodiversity; multiple drug-resistant STI variants; and increasing demand for services, both in terms of capacity and diversity of need. Minister for Health Jennifer Carroll MacNeill said the focus is on developing and expanding services 'that meet the needs of our population at every stage of life'. András Költő, a researcher at the Health Promotion Research Centre at University of Galway, and co-ordinator of the Irish National Survey of Sexual Health, said after Covid there was a rise in STIs as people began to meet again following periods of restrictions. 'The problem we are seeing is there appears to be a consistent rise in some infections. We are seeing this in cohorts that we wouldn't previously have seen it in,' he said. 'Young women having higher rates of gonorrhoea which we wouldn't have seen. If untreated, this can have a long-term impact on their reproductive health.' Speaking in advance of his conference on sexual health promotion on Thursday, he said there is a concerning trend among sexually active 15-year-olds – a decrease in the use of condoms. 'Porn is changing. Things which were widespread – such as using condoms – are not there anymore. And we know that many young people use porn as education, so if they're not seeing that then that will have an impact,' he said. Mr Költő said there has also been a rise in the use of IUDs and other methods of contraception, however he stressed that it was 'important that we're not putting all the burden of contraception on girls'.
Health Line
24-06-2025
- Health
- Health Line
What Is Monkeypox (mpox)?
Mpox (monkeypox) is a viral disease similar to smallpox. It causes fever, swollen lymph nodes, and a lesion-like rash. The lesions can appear on or near your genitals or anus and in other areas. Mpox is also a zoonotic disease. This means it can be transmitted from animals to humans and vice versa. It can also be transmitted from one human to another. There are two different types of the mpox virus, the West African virus and the Congo Basin virus. Before 2022, most cases of mpox occurred in central and western Africa. However, cases of mpox caused by the West African form of the virus have since spread worldwide, including in areas where it doesn't usually occur. Read on to learn about the causes, symptoms, and diagnosis of mpox. This article will also explain how mpox spreads and how it can be treated. The Word Health Organization (WHO) changed the name from 'monkeypox' to 'mpox' in November 2022 to reduce the risk of stigmatization and other issues. Where possible, this article has been updated to reflect this change. What causes monkeypox? Mpox is caused by the mpox virus. The virus is part of the Orthopoxvirus genus, which includes the virus that causes smallpox. Scientists first identified the disease in 1958. Two outbreaks occurred among monkeys used for research, which is why the condition was originally called monkeypox. The first case of mpox in a human happened in 1970 in the Democratic Republic of the Congo. Monkeypox symptoms The symptoms of mpox are similar to those of smallpox. However, Mpox symptoms are typically milder. After you contract the mpox virus, it typically takes 6 to 13 days for symptoms to appear. However, this can range from 5 to 21 days. The early symptoms can include: fever, which is commonly the first symptom headache muscle aches back ache fatigue chills swollen lymph nodes, also known as lymphadenopathy After the fever develops, a rash usually appears 1 to 3 days later. The rash typically affects your: face, which is the most common site palms of your hands soles of your feet mouth genitalia eyes, including the conjunctivae and cornea A rash may come before or after fever and other flu-like symptoms. Some people may only experience a rash. The rash associated with mpox consists of lesions that evolve in the following order: macules, or flat discolored lesions papules, or slightly raised lesions vesicles, or bumps with clear fluid pustules, or bumps with yellowish fluid scabs After the lesions dry and scab over, they fall off. The symptoms of mpox generally last 2 to 4 weeks and go away without treatment. Monkeypox pictures Here's what the condition looks like in humans: Potential complications from monkeypox Possible complications of mpox include: bronchopneumonia sepsis inflammation of brain tissue, also known as encephalitis infection of the cornea, the clear outer layer of your eye secondary infections An infection in the cornea may lead to vision loss. In severe cases, the lesions might merge together. This may cause the loss of a large area of skin. Where is monkeypox found? In the past, the mpox virus was mainly active in tropical, rural parts of central and western Africa. Since 1970, it has occurred in the following countries: Benin Cameroon Central African Republic Cote d'Ivoire Democratic Republic of the Congo Gabon Liberia Nigeria Republic of the Congo Sierra Leone South Sudan Historically, most reported cases of mpox are from rural areas of the Democratic Republic of the Congo. However, on July 23, 2022, the World Health Organization (WHO) officially declared the mpox outbreak a Public Health Emergency of International Concern. How does monkeypox spread? Mypox spreads through direct contact with the mpox virus through the following substances: blood bodily fluids skin or mucous lesions respiratory droplets, for human-to-human contact It can also spread through contact with objects, fabrics, or surfaces that contain the mpox virus. People who are pregnant can also pass the virus to their fetus through the placenta. The mpox virus can also be spread through intimate contact, which includes: hugging, massaging, or kissing oral, anal, or vaginal intercourse touching the genitals or anus of a person with the mpox virus prolonged face-to-face contact touching objects during sex that contain the mpox virus, such as bedding, towels, or sex toys Transmission can also happen through: bites and scratches from animals with an mpox infection eating the meat of an animal with an mpox infection Scientists are still researching whether monkeypox can be spread by a person who has no symptoms, how it spreads through respiratory secretions, and whether or not it can be spread by contact with other bodily fluids, including vaginal fluids, semen, urine, or feces. Is monkeypox deadly? According to the CDC, mpox is rarely fatal. In fact, approximately 99% of people who get the West African version of mpox survive. This is the strain that's responsible for the current outbreak. Certain people may be more susceptible to severe illness and complications, including: people with weakened immune systems children under 8 years old people who are pregnant or breastfeeding individuals with a history of eczema People who experience secondary bacterial infections tend to have worse outcomes. Compared with the West African form of the virus, the Congo Basin form of mpox is usually more severe — it has a fatality rate of around 10%. How is monkeypox treated? There's currently no treatment for mpox. However, monkeypox is self-limiting, which means it can get better without treatment. Some medications can be used to control an outbreak and prevent the disease from spreading. They can include: vaccinia vaccine (smallpox vaccine) vaccinia immune globulin antiviral medication (in animals) tecovirimat (TPOXX), an antiviral used to treat smallpox brincidofovir (Tembexa), an antiviral used to treat adult and pediatric smallpox cidofovir, which is typically used to treat eye infections caused by cytomegalovirus but has been used in certain mpox cases Other treatments focus on managing symptoms using over-the-counter or prescription medications, such as pain relievers, topical creams, and oral antihistamines. Can vaccination prevent monkeypox? According to the WHO, the smallpox vaccine is approximately 85% effective in preventing the development of mpox. If you received the smallpox vaccine as a child and contract the mpox virus, your symptoms may be mild. There are two vaccines available that may be used for the prevention of mpox, JYNNEOS and ACAM2000. People who have been exposed to mpox and those who are at an increased risk of contracting the virus should get a vaccine. This includes people who: have been identified by public health officials as a close contact of a person with mpox have had a sexual partner within the past 2 weeks who's been diagnosed with mpox have had multiple sexual partners within the past 2 weeks in an area where mpox cases have been reported who have a job that exposes them to orthopoxviruses, including mpox Ask your doctor about getting a vaccination. In addition to getting vaccinated, wash your hands frequently and avoid direct contact with people who have mpox or objects that they might've used to prevent infection. Who should be screened for monkeypox and how is it diagnosed? If you've had close contact with someone who has gotten mpox, consulting with a healthcare professional to determine whether testing is necessary. Doctors diagnose mpox using several methods: Lab tests: This involves testing the fluid from lesions or dry scabs. A polymerase chain reaction (PCR) test can check for the virus in these samples. Biopsy: A biopsy involves removing a piece of skin tissue and testing it for the virus. Blood tests aren't usually recommended. That's because the mpox virus stays in the blood for a short time. Therefore, it's not an accurate test for diagnosing mpox. Takeaway Mpox is a viral disease and zoonotic condition, which means it can spread from animals to humans. It can also spread through contact between two humans. The first symptoms typically include fever, muscle aches, and swollen lymph nodes. As the disease progresses, it causes a rash, which can appear on or near your genitals, anus, face, chest, and extremities. The rash consists of lesions that turn into fluid-filled blisters, which then dry up and fall off. The rash typically starts on your face and then progresses, usually to your arms and legs. However, it can occur in other parts of your body as well.
