Between January 1, 2023, and May 31, 2024, a total of 97,745 cases of Monkeypox have been confirmed from 116 countries leading to 203 deaths causing alarm bells across the globe of another imminent pandemic.[i] However, Monkeypox has been a threat for two years now. The World Health Organization (WHO) has declared Monkeypox a Public Health Emergency of International Concern (PHEIC) twice, on Aug 14, 2024[ii], and earlier in July 2022[iii], reflecting the potential for significant global health impacts. The outbreak of two new diseases and subsequent public health emergencies indicate the evolving nature of health threats and the need for global vigilance. Compared to Monkeypox, the COVID-19 pandemic, represented a more immediate and widespread crisis due to its high transmissibility and severe health consequences.[iv] Although Monkeypox is less transmissible and appears to be less severe compared to COVID-19, it still requires targeted global responses. India’s role in addressing both existing and potential global health threats is crucial, given its significant public health infrastructure and pharmaceutical capabilities.
What is Monkeypox?
Monkeypox is an infectious disease caused by the Monkeypox virus, a member of the Orthopoxvirus genus, the same genus as the smallpox virus.[v] The disease was first identified in monkeys used for research in 1958, and the first human case was reported in 1970 in the Democratic Republic of the Congo.[vi] Its transmission can occur through direct contact with infected animals, particularly rodents, and can spread between humans through close contact. The symptoms are fever, rash, and swollen lymph nodes.
Comparison Between COVID-19 and Monkeypox
COVID-19 and Monkeypox illustrate different dimensions of global health threats. COVID-19, caused by the SARS-CoV-2 virus, is known for its high transmissibility and severe health impacts, including respiratory distress and significant mortality rates among vulnerable populations.[vii] The pandemic necessitated a global response involving extensive lockdowns, social distancing measures, and a large-scale vaccination campaign.[viii]
Monkeypox, in contrast, spreads primarily through close contact rather than via airborne routes, which makes its management more focused.[ix] The global response to Monkeypox has included targeted surveillance, containment efforts, and localized vaccination campaigns. This response reflects a more contained approach compared to the widespread strategies used during the COVID-19 pandemic.[x] Despite the differences, both outbreaks underscore the need for adaptable public health strategies capable of addressing a range of health threats.[xi]
India’s Role in Global Health Threats
India has played a significant role in global health, particularly during the COVID-19 pandemic. The country emerged as a key player in vaccine production, with its pharmaceutical sector providing millions of doses globally.[xii] The Serum Institute of India, a major vaccine manufacturer, was instrumental in the global vaccination campaign.[xiii]
In response to the Monkeypox outbreak, India has been proactive in strengthening its public health measures. The Indian government has enhanced surveillance and containment efforts to manage potential cases, reflecting its commitment to global health security.[xiv] Furthermore, the Serum Institute of India is working on developing a Monkeypox vaccine, with updates indicating that a vaccine could be available soon.[xv] This development is part of India’s efforts under Health Diplomacy, like ‘Vaccine Maitri’, to address emerging health threats and reinforces India’s role in contributing to global health solutions.
The WHO has also launched a Global Strategic Preparedness and Response Plan for Monkeypox to coordinate international efforts and mitigate the impact of the outbreak.[xvi] India can significantly contribute to the WHO’s Global Strategic Preparedness and Response Plan for Monkeypox through several key actions. Leveraging its vaccine production capacity, the country can expedite the development and global distribution of Monkeypox vaccines, addressing supply needs worldwide. India’s extensive public health infrastructure can enhance global surveillance and monitoring by sharing valuable data and participating in international reporting. Additionally, Indian research institutions can contribute to studies on the virus and improve diagnostic tools. The country can also provide training for healthcare workers and share best practices from its experience with large-scale health interventions. Furthermore, India’s support for WHO initiatives and international collaborations will strengthen the global response to Monkeypox, facilitating a coordinated effort to manage and contain the outbreak.
Conclusion
The WHO’s declaration of Monkeypox as a PHEIC underscores the importance of adaptable and targeted public health responses to evolving global health threats. While Monkeypox and COVID-19 differ in terms of their transmissibility and impact, both highlight the need for robust health strategies. India’s role in addressing these threats, particularly through its pharmaceutical capabilities and public health infrastructure, demonstrates its significant position in global health security. As the global community continues to navigate these challenges, the experiences and strategies developed in response to both Monkeypox and COVID-19 will be essential in shaping future health policies and responses.
By: Manah P, Research Assistant, CS3, USI
Endnotes
[i] Neetu Chandra Sharma, “WHO Urgently Seeks Mpox Vaccine Submissions as Global Outbreak Worsens,” Business Today, August 14, 2024, https://www.businesstoday.in/industry/pharma/story/who-urgently-seeks-mpox-vaccine-submissions-as-global-outbreak-worsens-441554-2024-08-14.
[ii] Pti, “Serum Institute Says Working to Develop Monkeypox Vaccine,” The Economic Times, August 20, 2024, https://economictimes.indiatimes.com/industry/healthcare/biotech/healthcare/serum-institute-says-working-to-develop-monkeypox-vaccine/articleshow/112658842.cms?from=mdr.
[iii] World Health Organization: WHO, “WHO Director-General declares the ongoing monkeypox outbreak a Public Health Emergency of International Concern,” July 23, 2022, https://www.who.int/europe/news/item/23-07-2022-who-director-general-declares-the-ongoing-monkeypox-outbreak-a-public-health-event-of-international-concern.
[iv] A. David Paltiel, Amy Zheng, and Rochelle P. Walensky, “Assessment of SARS-CoV-2 Screening Strategies to Permit the Safe Reopening of College Campuses in the United States,” JAMA Network Open 3, no. 7 (July 31, 2020): e2016818, https://doi.org/10.1001/jamanetworkopen.2020.16818.
[v] “Health Alert Network (HAN) – 00501 | Mpox Caused by Human-to-Human Transmission of Monkeypox Virus With Geographic Spread in the Democratic Republic of the Congo,” n.d., https://emergency.cdc.gov/han/2023/han00501.asp.
[vi] Ibid.
[vii] A. David Paltiel, Amy Zheng, and Rochelle P. Walensky, “Assessment of SARS-CoV-2 Screening Strategies to Permit the Safe Reopening of College Campuses in the United States,” JAMA Network Open 3, no. 7 (July 31, 2020): e2016818, https://doi.org/10.1001/jamanetworkopen.2020.16818.
[viii] “COVID-19 Cases | WHO COVID-19 Dashboard,” Datadot, n.d., https://data.who.int/dashboards/covid19/cases?n=c.
[ix] “Health Alert Network (HAN) – 00501 | Mpox Caused by Human-to-Human Transmission of Monkeypox Virus With Geographic Spread in the Democratic Republic of the Congo,” n.d., https://emergency.cdc.gov/han/2023/han00501.asp.
[x] World Health Organization: WHO, “WHO Director-General declares the ongoing monkeypox outbreak a Public Health Emergency of International Concern,” July 23, 2022, https://www.who.int/europe/news/item/23-07-2022-who-director-general-declares-the-ongoing-monkeypox-outbreak-a-public-health-event-of-international-concern.
[xi] A. David Paltiel, Amy Zheng, and Rochelle P. Walensky, “Assessment of SARS-CoV-2 Screening Strategies to Permit the Safe Reopening of College Campuses in the United States,” JAMA Network Open 3, no. 7 (July 31, 2020): e2016818, https://doi.org/10.1001/jamanetworkopen.2020.16818.
[xii] Khan Sharun and Kuldeep Dhama, “India’s Role in COVID-19 Vaccine Diplomacy,” Journal of Travel Medicine 28, no. 7 (April 16, 2021), https://doi.org/10.1093/jtm/taab064.
[xiii] Ibid.
[xiv] Ministry of Health and Family Welfare, “GUIDELINES FOR MANAGEMENT OF MONKEYPOX DISEASE,” Ministry of Health and Family Welfare, n.d., https://main.mohfw.gov.in/sites/default/files/Guidelines%20for%20Management%20of%20Monkeypox%20Disease.pdf.
[xv] Et Online, “Mpox Vaccine Coming Soon, Says Covishield Manufacturer SII’s CEO Adar Poonawalla,” The Economic Times, August 21, 2024, https://economictimes.indiatimes.com/industry/healthcare/biotech/healthcare/mpox-vaccine-coming-soon-says-covishield-manufacturer-siis-ceo-adar-poonawalla/articleshow/112670226.cms?from=mdr).
[xvi] World Health Organization: WHO, “Global Strategic Preparedness and Response Plan Launched by WHO to Contain Mpox Outbreak,” August 26, 2024, https://www.who.int/news/item/26-08-2024-global-strategic-preparedness-and-response-plan-launched-by-who-to-contain-mpox-outbreak.