Mpox and COVID-19: Clearing the Misconception
In recent weeks, social media has been abuzz with claims suggesting that Mpox is a result of COVID-19 vaccination side effects. The Indonesian Ministry of Health (Kementerian Kesehatan RI) has addressed these rumors, asserting that they are unfounded.
Dr. Mohammad Syahril, Sp.P, MPH, the spokesperson for the Ministry of Health, clarified that Mpox and COVID-19 are distinct diseases with separate histories. Mpox was first reported in 1970 in the Democratic Republic of Congo and has since become endemic in several African countries. "Mpox and COVID-19 are two different diseases," Syahril stated. "Mpox existed before COVID-19."
In 2022, the World Health Organization (WHO) declared Mpox a Public Health Emergency of International Concern (PHEIC), with Indonesia reporting several confirmed cases at the time. However, in May 2023, WHO revoked this status due to a decrease in global cases.
Syahril emphasized that there is no connection between COVID-19 vaccination and Mpox. "Therefore, it’s incorrect to say that Mpox is a side effect of COVID-19 vaccination. There’s no link between them," he asserted.
Mpox is caused by the Mpox virus (MPXV), which has two main clades: Clade I and Clade II, each with their respective subclades. The global outbreak in 2022-2023 was caused by Clade IIb, while the current increase in African cases is primarily due to Clade Ia and Ib.
Mpox is transmitted through direct human contact, including sexual contact and contaminated objects. Although most cases have been reported among men who have sex with men (MSM), Syahril warned that the virus can spread to other population groups, including children living with infected individuals.
As Mpox cases continue to evolve, it’s crucial for the public to remain vigilant and informed. The Ministry of Health assures that accurate information will be provided to prevent the spread of misinformation and ensure public health and safety.
Worth a look