Mpox Clade Ib variant has faster transmission rate: BRIN

The recent update from the National Research and Innovation Agency (BRIN) highlights the growing concerns surrounding the monkeypox virus (Mpox), particularly focusing on the Clade Ib variant. This variant is noted for its faster transmission rate and higher severity, including among children. Here’s a breakdown of the key points from the statement:

1. Increased Transmission and Severity: The Clade Ib variant is reported to spread more quickly and cause more severe symptoms compared to other variants. This includes a higher risk for children, which raises alarms about its potential impact.
2. Variants and Transmission: Mpox is categorized into several clades. Clade Ia is linked to more severe cases in both children and adults, while Clade Ib and Ilb are primarily transmitted through sexual contact. The increased concern is due to the detection of Clade Ib outside its usual geographic range.
3. Preventative Measures: To curb the spread, the Indonesian government is enhancing health screenings at entry points and utilizing the SATUSEHAT Health Pass application to monitor traveler mobility. This is part of a broader strategy to prevent Mpox from entering the country and to manage outbreaks effectively.
4. Early Detection and Surveillance: The Health Minister has emphasized the importance of early detection systems to intercept potential cases of Mpox. This includes the reactivation of surveillance measures and the preparation of PCR machines for rapid diagnosis.
5. Fatality Rates: The Clade Ib variant has a significantly higher fatality rate (around 10%) compared to previous strains (which had a fatality rate of about 0.1%). This dramatic increase in fatality underscores the urgency of controlling its spread and improving response strategies.

These measures reflect a proactive stance by the Indonesian government to tackle the challenges posed by the evolving Mpox variants and mitigate the risk of widespread outbreaks.

The recent report from the National Research and Innovation Agency (BRIN) highlights that the Mpox Clade Ib variant exhibits a faster transmission rate and increased severity, which poses significant public health concerns. Here’s a detailed breakdown:

Key Points:

1. Transmission and Severity:
   • The Clade Ib variant of the Mpox virus is reported to spread more rapidly compared to other variants.
   • This variant is also associated with higher severity, affecting both adults and children, raising concerns about its potential impact on vulnerable populations.
2. Clade Overview:
   • Mpox is classified into different clades: Clade Ia, Clade Ib, and Clade Ilb.
   • Clade Ia: Known for causing severe clinical manifestations in both children and adults.
   • Clade Ib and Ilb: These are primarily transmitted through human-to-human contact, especially sexual contact.
3. Health Measures and Screening:
   • The Indonesian government is enhancing health screenings at entry points to prevent the importation of Mpox.
   • The SATUSEHAT Health Pass application will be used to track traveler movements and ensure early detection of potential cases.
4. Surveillance and Detection:
   • In response to the emerging threat, the government has reactivated early detection systems for infectious diseases.
   • Two PCR machines have been deployed in Jakarta, Cengkareng, and Bali to quickly detect Mpox symptoms within 30-40 minutes.
5. Fatality Rates:
   • The Clade Ib variant has a notably higher fatality rate, approaching 10%, compared to the previous variants, which had a fatality rate of about 0.1%. This dramatic increase in fatality rate emphasizes the need for urgent intervention and monitoring.

Public Health Response:

• Enhanced Screening: Measures are being put in place to screen travelers more thoroughly and monitor health data closely.
• Vaccination and Therapy Development: Ongoing research aims to develop new vaccines or therapies to control Mpox more effectively.
• Travel Monitoring: Travelers are required to scan QR codes to log travel history, which will be flagged with color-coded notifications (yellow, green, red) to manage potential risks.