Mexico Issues Epidemiological Alert to Combat Mpox Spread

Mexico’s National Committee for Epidemiological Surveillance (CONAVE) has issued an alert for mpox, aiming to improve monitoring and control of the disease nationwide. This move follows the World Health Organization’s (WHO) decision to declare the recent rise in mpox cases? a Public Health Emergency of International Concern (PHEIC).

The alert aims to prompt medical facilities nationwide to monitor and report suspected cases of mpox. This measure seeks to minimize transmission chains and ensure timely medical care for affected individuals, as reported by Mexico’s Ministry of Health (SSA).

CONAVE also underscores the importance of adhering to stringent epidemiological surveillance protocols and providing prompt medical attention. It outlines the operational definitions for suspected, confirmed, and discarded cases based on WHO recommendations. Health professionals are advised on the necessary steps to take when a probable case is identified.

As of Aug. 3, 2024, Mexico’s Epidemiological Surveillance System has recorded 212 probable cases of mpox this year, with 49 confirmed cases spread across 11 states. Only the clade II variant has been detected in Mexico thus far, with no evidence of the new clade 1b variant.

Mexico’s response plan for mpox includes national coordination, community engagement, comprehensive diagnostic and surveillance efforts, and risk communication. This plan is regularly updated to address the requirements of the PHEIC and is activated in response to the epidemiological alert.

For those suspecting mpox or needing to connect with medical facilities, Mexico has provided a dedicated hotline at 55 1946 9772 and an email contact at [email protected].

The WHO’s declaration comes as mpox outbreaks increase, particularly in Africa, where a new variant distinct from the 2022 strain is emerging. This variant, part of the clade I lineage, is associated with sustained transmission and affects a broader age range. The WHO has urged member states to remain vigilant for potential introductions of this variant into other regions, including the Americas and the Caribbean.

The WHO has been actively working with governments and other partners to address the outbreak. Efforts include providing equipment for analyzing blood samples, supporting laboratories in sequencing viral samples, and training healthcare workers. The organization has also developed a regional response plan that requires an initial US$15 million for effective surveillance, preparedness, and response activities. So far, US$1.45 million from the WHO Contingency Fund for Emergencies has been allocated, with additional funding expected, as reported by MBN.