Monkeypox virus keeps getting better at spreading among humans
October 30, 2024
Analysis reveals that mpox clade Ia, previously known for animal-to-human transmission in Central Africa, has evolved to spread between humans, possibly through sexual contact. This development, identified in Kinshasa, DRC, complicates efforts to control the disease's surge in Central Africa. The discovery adds to the virus's known variants (Ia, Ib, IIa, and IIb), with this evolution following a pattern similar to the 2022 global outbreak caused by clade IIb. The findings, posted on Virological on October 22, await peer review as researchers work to understand the implications of this adaptation.
Recent genome analysis reveals concerning developments in mpox transmission patterns, particularly regarding the clade Ia strain in Central Africa. This evolution represents a significant shift in our understanding of the virus's behavior and spread.
Key Findings:
1. Evolutionary Changes:
- Clade Ia showing sustained human-to-human transmission
- Genetic mutations indicate adaptation
- Possible sexual transmission pathway
- Previously known for animal-to-human spread
- Centered in Kinshasa, DRC
2. Historical Context:
- Four known variants: Ia, Ib, IIa, and IIb
- Traditional geographic distribution:
* Clade I: Central Africa
* Clade II: West Africa
- Pattern similar to Nigerian outbreak in mid-2010s
3. Research Status:
- Preliminary results posted October 22
- Awaiting peer review
- Posted on Virological discussion forum
- Ongoing data collection
- Analysis of evolution patterns
4. Implications:
- Complicates control efforts
- Parallels with other viral evolutions (Ebola, COVID)
- Unknown adaptation potential
- Need for enhanced surveillance
- Questions about outbreak drivers
5. Expert Perspective:
Dr. Placide Mbala of Kinshasa's National Institute of Biomedical Research emphasizes the expected but concerning nature of this viral evolution, highlighting the need for continued research to understand its full implications.