New Deadly Monkeypox Strain Discovered in Democratic Republic of Congo

A new, more lethal strain of monkeypox has been identified in the Democratic Republic of Congo, raising concerns about its potential to cause a wider outbreak. The strain, which is an offspring of the MPXV strain, was discovered in the city of Kamituga and has a mortality rate of up to 10%, significantly higher than previously known monkeypox variants.

Researchers caution that this new strain has demonstrated the capability to infect individuals while evading detection through standard diagnostic tests. The virus is likely to first appear in animals between July and September 2024 before being transmitted to humans. Early data indicates that 30% of recorded cases are among sex workers, suggesting the virus may spread through similar patterns as the 2022 monkeypox outbreak.

The new strain has led to venereal lesions in about 85% of cases, with 10% of patients requiring hospitalization. Tragically, two people have already died from the virus. If urgent measures are not taken to contain the outbreak, researchers warn that the virus could spread nationally and internationally.

Why this matters: The emergence of a deadlier monkeypox strain in the Democratic Republic of Congo underscores the ongoing threat posed by zoonotic diseases. It highlights the urgent need for a coordinated international response to prevent the virus from spreading beyond the region and potentially causing a wider epidemic.

Dr. Jean-Jacques Muyembe, Director-General of the National Institute for Biomedical Research in the Democratic Republic of Congo, emphasized the seriousness of the situation, stating, "This new strain of monkeypox is a serious concern. We must act swiftly to contain it and prevent further spread. Collaboration between endemic countries and the international community is crucial to mount an effective response." The discovery of this deadly strain serves as a sobering reminder of the importance of robust disease surveillance and the need for continued vigilance in detecting and responding to emerging pathogens.

Key Takeaways

• New, more lethal monkeypox strain identified in DRC with 10% mortality rate
• Strain can evade detection and infect animals before spreading to humans
• 30% of cases are among sex workers, suggesting similar spread as 2022 outbreak
• Urgent action needed to contain outbreak and prevent national/international spread
• Highlights need for robust disease surveillance and response to emerging pathogens