Mpox is not a new virus, with notable outbreaks occurring as recently as 2022. However, a new variant has recently begun to spread.

This new variant is more contagious and causes a more severe course of illness. In response, the World Health Organisation (WHO) issued its highest level of alert last week.
 
Since January 2024, the new Mpox variant has spread rapidly across Congo, with approximately 30,000 cases reported and over a thousand fatalities. 13 countries on the African continent have been affected by the virus so far. In Europe, only one case has been recorded—an individual in Sweden who had recently returned from an African country.
 
Professor Dr Claude Muller of the Luxembourg Institute of Health (LIH) emphasises that not all cases are recorded due to the virus' incubation period and the fact that some infections are mild enough that people do not seek medical attention. He also notes that the rash characteristic of the disease takes time to appear.
 
The symptoms of this new Mpox variant initially resemble those of the flu, with a distinctive rash developing later, which can lead to blisters on the skin. However, Prof Muller explains that preventing the disease is relatively straightforward.
 
According to Prof Muller, the virus is primarily transmitted through the exchange of bodily fluids with an infected person, most commonly through sexual contact. He references a 2022 statistic, noting that 95% of those infected were "mainly men" who had sexual relations with other men.
 
Prof Muller also highlights that the Mpox virus is highly stable, capable of surviving in excrement or vomit for weeks, even months, while remaining contagious during that time. However, he is confident that this virus is not likely to trigger a pandemic.
 
According to Prof Muller, as long as individuals maintain good hygiene and avoid risky contacts, "not much can happen."
 
Currently, there are no specific treatments available for Mpox, with healthcare providers focusing on managing the symptoms. The National Health Directorate has confirmed that Luxembourg has sufficient vaccine doses in stock. However, given the low risk to the Grand Duchy, there are no plans for a vaccination campaign at this time.
 
Individuals who suspect they may have contracted the virus are advised to contact their general practitioner or reach out to the Health Inspection Department.