Peshawar’s rising mpox cases prompt urgent response from UNICEF, including a new vaccine tender, as global health officials intensify efforts to combat the outbreak

As the mpox outbreak intensifies, Peshawar in Pakistan has emerged as a central point of concern. The city has recently reported its fifth mpox case, with a 47-year-old man testing positive on August 29 after returning from the Gulf region. This case, along with previous ones, has raised alarms about the virus’s resurgence and its transmission dynamics.

Federal Director General of Health Shabana Saleem expressed growing concern over the spread of mpox, especially in Peshawar, which is becoming a hotspot for the disease. Saleem noted that all recent cases have connections to travel in the Gulf region, highlighting the importance of vigilant monitoring and immediate action to curb the outbreak.

Mpox, formerly known as monkeypox, has long been a public health issue in Africa but gained global attention in 2022. The World Health Organization (WHO) declared a global health emergency on August 14 due to the ‘clade 1b’ strain, which has caused over 18,000 suspected cases and 615 deaths in the Democratic Republic of Congo alone this year. Cases have also been reported in Africa, Sweden, and Thailand, emphasizing the widespread nature of the outbreak.

In response to the escalating situation, UNICEF has launched an emergency tender to secure mpox vaccines for affected regions. Partnering with Gavi, Africa CDC, and WHO, UNICEF aims to procure up to 12 million doses by 2025, depending on vaccine production capacities. This initiative is critical as the world races to contain the outbreak and protect vulnerable populations.

Nigeria has already begun preparations to combat mpox, with the first vaccine doses expected to be administered starting October 8, following regulatory approvals. Nigeria recently received 10,000 doses of the mpox vaccine from the U.S. Agency for International Development. Despite having confirmed 40 cases of mpox, Nigeria has not reported any deaths so far.

The Democratic Republic of Congo remains the hardest-hit, with over 18,000 suspected cases and 629 deaths this year. Burundi has also confirmed more than 150 cases. In addition to these regions, mpox cases of the clade 1b type have been reported in Sweden and Thailand, illustrating the global reach of the outbreak.

Analysis:

Political:

The mpox outbreak in Peshawar and its designation as an epicentre underscore the critical need for coordinated public health responses. For Pakistan, managing this crisis involves not only domestic public health measures but also international collaboration. The involvement of global organizations like UNICEF and WHO highlights the political dimension of health crises, where international aid and cooperation become pivotal in addressing emerging threats. The government’s handling of the situation will be scrutinized both locally and globally, impacting its political standing and international relations.

Social:

The rise in mpox cases in Peshawar affects the local community’s sense of security and health. The virus’s spread through close contact underscores the importance of public awareness and preventive measures. Socially, there is an increased need for education on disease prevention and the importance of vaccination. As the outbreak intensifies, it may also affect public behaviour, with increased caution and possible disruptions to daily life. The community’s response to health advisories and vaccination campaigns will be crucial in managing the outbreak effectively.

Racial:

Mpox’s re-emergence highlights disparities in health outcomes across different regions, particularly in areas with limited healthcare infrastructure. The outbreak in Peshawar, a diverse city with varying socio-economic conditions, may exacerbate existing racial and socio-economic health disparities. Addressing these disparities requires targeted health interventions and equitable access to resources, including vaccines and medical care. The global response to mpox must consider these factors to ensure that all affected populations receive adequate support.

Gender:

The impact of mpox on different genders needs careful consideration, as health crises often affect men and women differently. In many regions, including Peshawar, traditional gender roles and access to healthcare can influence how diseases impact men and women. Ensuring that vaccination and health information reach all segments of the population, regardless of gender, is essential for a comprehensive public health response. Gender-sensitive approaches in health communication and service delivery can enhance the effectiveness of outbreak management.

Economic:

The economic implications of the mpox outbreak are significant. The costs associated with managing the outbreak, including healthcare expenses, vaccination campaigns, and economic disruptions, can strain public resources. The outbreak may also impact local economies, particularly if it leads to restrictions on movement and commerce. International aid and support, such as the UNICEF vaccine procurement initiative, play a crucial role in mitigating these economic impacts. Ensuring that the economic burden does not disproportionately affect already vulnerable populations is an important aspect of managing the crisis.