Orthopox viruses: is the threat growing?
Clin Microbiol Infect
; 30(7): 883-887, 2024 Jul.
Article
em En
| MEDLINE
| ID: mdl-38387500
ABSTRACT
BACKGROUND:
Smallpox was a major cause of human mortality until its eradication, but the threat of orthopox viruses has not disappeared. Since the eradication of smallpox and the cessation of the related vaccination campaigns, the threat has been growing, as evidenced by the currently ongoing worldwide Mpox outbreak. In addition to threats of an evolving Mpox, we must also be aware of a myriad of other threats that remain. Many countries still lack biosecurity regulations reflecting the recent technological advances, and the threat of bioterrorism remains ever present. Reconstruction of smallpox is a distinct possibility, as are other scenarios whereby other orthopox viruses may be made more fit for transmission in humans.OBJECTIVES:
To outline and discuss potential biosafety and biosecurity threats posed by orthopox viruses. SOURCES Published scientific literature, news articles, and international agreements. CONTENT AND IMPLICATIONS It would be wise to take steps to mitigate these threats now. Vaccination campaigns should be considered in areas with frequent orthopox outbreaks, and more efforts must be made to put a final end to the Mpox outbreak. In many countries, national biosafety and biosecurity regulations may need to be revised and strengthened to better reflect the threats posed by new technologies, including controls on synthesis of smallpox sequences. Furthermore, more international cooperation and aid is needed. The present global Mpox outbreak could likely have been prevented had areas where Mpox is endemic not been neglected. Future outbreaks could be much worse.Palavras-chave
Texto completo:
1
Coleções:
01-internacional
Base de dados:
MEDLINE
Contexto em Saúde:
15_ODS3_global_health_risks
/
4_TD
Problema de saúde:
15_riscos_biologicos
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4_smallpox
Assunto principal:
Surtos de Doenças
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Orthopoxvirus
Limite:
Animals
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Humans
Idioma:
En
Revista:
Clin Microbiol Infect
Assunto da revista:
DOENCAS TRANSMISSIVEIS
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MICROBIOLOGIA
Ano de publicação:
2024
Tipo de documento:
Article