"Global emergency means there is a risk of an epidemic"

The World Health Organization (WHO) declared a global emergency regarding monkeypox on August 14, 2024. WHO Director-General Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus called on all countries to strengthen their monitoring on his X account.

The monkeypox virus was first discovered in colonies of monkeys in 1958. The first human case occurred in the Democratic Republic of Congo in 1970. This virus is not transmitted only by monkeys; it is primarily carried by rodents and wild animals.

The risk of contracting monkeypox is mainly through contact with rodents and wild animals living in the deserts of West and Central Africa, or through bites. Additionally, transmission can occur through the blood, body fluids, and skin lesions of infected animals.

Since September 2023, a new monkeypox epidemic has been ongoing in Africa, with 13,700 cases recorded and 456 deaths. Recently, reports have emerged of cases in Sweden, Pakistan, and Turkey.

Infectious disease specialist Hepatologist Mardan Aliyev spoke to ASTNA about the issue.

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Question: Mr. Mardan, WHO declared a global emergency regarding monkeypox on August 14, 2024. How serious should this warning be taken? Or is this warning aimed at creating panic among people for some political reason?

Answer: Yes, WHO has declared an emergency again regarding monkeypox. A similar declaration was made about two years ago when the disease was rapidly increasing. After a while, the disease stabilized, and the emergency situation was lifted. However, the number of cases increased again in Europe and Africa, prompting WHO to declare a global emergency once more. It is the duty of WHO to alert countries about such threats because a global emergency signifies an epidemic risk. There is a risk for international travel and trade, as well as for public health. This indicates that countries need to strengthen their control over the disease domestically and allocate funds if necessary for preventive measures.

Question: When the COVID-19 pandemic began, there was a notion that such diseases are deliberately and artificially created to reduce the global population. Now, with the emergence of monkeypox and WHO's warning, how true are these ideas among people?

Answer: As I mentioned, it is the responsibility of WHO to provide warnings because the virus is spreading. This is not about creating panic. Monkeypox is different from coronavirus; it is a disease known since the 1950s. The idea of the virus being artificially created is incorrect. Monkeypox has existed in Africa since the 1950s, with natural cases of infection and recovery. Occasionally, this disease has spread to Asia, Europe, and America. This is just one of the new cases of infection.

Question: What is monkeypox, and is there a vaccine available?

Answer: There is a vaccine available for monkeypox. If needed, it can be used. Vaccines are produced in America and Europe and can be brought to any country if necessary. However, at the moment, there is no immediate need for it. This virus is not like coronavirus; it has a very low chance of creating an epidemic. If someone travels to a country where the disease is more widespread, like Congo in Africa, there is a risk. However, in our country, there is no risk because this disease is not transmitted through the air or droplets. It mainly spreads through contact. Therefore, it is not a rapidly spreading epidemic like coronavirus.

Question: How should people protect themselves from this disease?

Answer: Since this disease spreads through contact, it is relatively easy to protect oneself. Following hygiene practices and avoiding contact with infected individuals is sufficient. It is easy to identify infected individuals because they have visible rashes on their faces and arms. Avoid contact with such individuals to prevent infection.

Question: The COVID-19 disease has resurfaced in Paris Olympic Games, and Azerbaijan is preparing to host a major event, COP 29. With the warning about monkeypox, how will Azerbaijan manage?

Answer: I don't think there will be a problem with COP 29 because it is a short-term event, not a long-term one. Therefore, I don't anticipate any issues. Monkeypox is easier to control since infected individuals are visibly noticeable. We also have experience dealing with coronavirus, having implemented measures for years. Additionally, COVID-19 is no longer as deadly, with fewer severe cases and complications. Considering that we have developed collective immunity, there is no major problem.

Question: By the way, Azerbaijan has kept its land borders closed for four and a half years due to the coronavirus pandemic. Can closing land borders be a primary measure to prevent disease?

Answer: Closing borders can play a role to some extent, but it is not highly effective.

Question: Finally, what are your recommendations for individuals, communities, and governments to protect themselves from such diseases?

Answer: People need to be informed and knowledgeable to prevent both panic and incorrect actions. Therefore, it is important to get information about the disease from experts. People should avoid believing in rumors. Obtaining accurate information is the best approach. Standard precautionary measures generally play a significant role in preventing diseases. I believe that monkeypox does not have a high potential to cause an epidemic. It may spread in certain countries, usually through close contact, sexual activity, or kissing. In some countries, where people have close contact, the disease can spread easily from one person to another. The culture of the country can also influence the spread of such diseases. The likelihood of this disease spreading in our country is very low.