Top Doctors Declare: Mpox Isn’t the New COVID-19!

Top health experts are clarifying the distinctions between mpox and COVID-19, asserting that mpox should not be viewed as the "new COVID-19." The World Health Organization (WHO) recently declared mpox a global health emergency, which has led to heightened concern and comparisons to the COVID-19 pandemic. However, experts emphasize that the two diseases stem from different viruses and exhibit vastly different transmission dynamics.

Mpox, caused by the Orthopoxvirus, is primarily spread through close contact with infected individuals or animals, making its transmission less efficient compared to COVID-19, which is caused by the SARS-CoV-2 virus. Unlike COVID-19, which can spread rapidly through respiratory droplets, mpox requires prolonged contact for transmission, significantly reducing the likelihood of a pandemic-scale outbreak. Experts note that while mpox cases have emerged in over 116 countries, the risk of widespread transmission remains low.

The symptoms of mpox include fever, muscle aches, and a distinctive rash that develops into fluid-filled blisters, which is a key differentiator from COVID-19 symptoms that can vary widely and include respiratory issues. Additionally, mpox has a longer incubation period, typically lasting between 5 to 21 days, compared to COVID-19's 2 to 14 days. While mpox can be serious, its mortality rate is generally lower than that of COVID-19, with most cases being mild and self-limiting.

As the situation evolves, experts urge the public to remain vigilant but not alarmed. Vaccines for mpox are already available, and the focus should be on ensuring equitable access to these vaccines, particularly in regions where outbreaks are more common. By applying lessons learned from the COVID-19 pandemic, health authorities can better manage mpox and prevent it from escalating into a larger public health crisis.