A virologist has indicated that there is a significant possibility that the ongoing mpox outbreak may lead to a lockdown throughout the United Kingdom.
On Thursday, August 16, the World Health Organization (WHO) declared the Clade 1b strain of mpox a global health emergency. This decision comes after a notable rise in cases in various African countries and one confirmed case in Sweden.
With the United Kingdom preparing for its initial confirmed case of mpox, it is natural for the British public to feel apprehensive about this development, particularly as it follows closely on the heels of the Covid-19 pandemic experienced just a few years ago.
The WHO has declared mpox a global health emergency. (Avishek Das/SOPA Images/LightRocket via Getty Images)
Given the lingering concerns regarding the hoarding of toilet paper and the sensation of being confined to one's home, it is reasonable to expect that the announcement of a ‘global health emergency' will be met with apprehension by numerous residents in the UK.
According to a virologist, there is currently no reason for alarm based on the present circumstances.
What are the chances of an mpox lockdown?
In an interview with LADbible regarding the current outbreak, Dr. Cheryl Walter, a virologist and lecturer at the University of Hull, expressed her desire to reassure the public that there is no imminent risk of a lockdown related to mpox at this time.
She articulated her informed opinion, stating, “My educated assumption, and it is indeed an educated assumption, is no,” while further clarifying that the nation faces ‘a different situation regarding mpox.'
The two viruses exhibit significant differences in their modes of transmission. Furthermore, it is important to note that we are not beginning from scratch with mpox, as we already possess vaccines that effectively prevent its spread. Additionally, there are antiviral medications available, which creates a markedly different situation.
The risk of a mpox lockdown is currently extremely low (Getty Stock Images)
Nevertheless, this variant poses significant risks as it continues to spread, and I anticipate that some individuals may react with alarm. However, I firmly believe that exercising caution at this time and notifying all healthcare organizations is the prudent course of action.
She stated that, in general, individuals are likely to be perfectly well. They may need to isolate, similar to the protocols observed during the Covid-19 pandemic.
It may be necessary for them to remain isolated until they are no longer contagious, along with adhering to standard self-care practices when one is unwell, such as maintaining hydration, getting adequate rest, and utilizing pain relief methods.
What makes this strain of mpox so deadly?
Dr. Walter indicated that it is presently premature to determine whether the Clade 1b strain of mpox exhibits greater transmissibility compared to other strains, as additional research is required. Nevertheless, she emphasized that the primary concern at this time is its significantly higher lethality.
She clarified that one undeniable fact regarding this specific strain, known as Clade 1b, is that it possesses significantly higher lethality.
The case fatality rate is estimated to be between three and four percent, which is significantly high. Additionally, pox was prominently featured in the news approximately two years ago, and during that time, the specific variant reported a case fatality rate of only 0.1%.
It is particularly concerning that approximately 10 percent of individuals with mpox may remain asymptomatic, while others may exhibit more generalized symptoms in the early stages of the illness.
Featured Image Credit: Getty stock images
