China Implements New Strategies to Combat Monkeypox Outbreak

China intensifies its fight against mpox as cases surge, drawing on lessons from COVID-19 to prevent a potential global health crisis.

At a Glance

China has seen a substantial increase in mpox cases since February 2023
The country has strengthened surveillance at ports of entry
97.3% of mpox cases in Beijing were identified in men who have sex with men (MSM)
A study showed that 76.4% of 521 Chinese participants were willing to receive an mpox vaccine
China is implementing measures based on experiences from other countries

China’s Mpox Outbreak and Response

China is facing a significant challenge as mpox cases have surged since February 2023, despite the World Health Organization (WHO) declaring that the global mpox outbreak was no longer a public health emergency of international concern as of May 11, 2023. The first locally acquired case of mpox in mainland China was reported on May 31, 2023, signaling the start of a concerning trend.

In response to this outbreak, China has implemented stringent measures to prevent and control the spread of the virus. These measures include intensified surveillance at ports of entry and mandatory health declarations for travelers arriving from mpox-affected areas who display symptoms. The Chinese government is leveraging its experience from combating COVID-19 to manage this new health threat effectively.

Targeted Approach to High-Risk Groups

Data from Beijing reveals that 97.3% of mpox cases were identified in men who have sex with men (MSM), highlighting the need for targeted interventions. Health authorities are focusing on enhanced surveillance and education efforts within high-risk populations to curb the spread of the virus. This approach aligns with successful strategies employed in other countries, such as the United Kingdom’s method of identifying and contacting close contacts of mpox infections for testing or quarantine.

With cases surging, the Africa Centers for Disease Control and Prevention on Tuesday declared the ongoing mpox outbreak a public health emergency of continental security (PHECS) https://t.co/KLFToTwMEc pic.twitter.com/RVZAf1MJCE

— China Xinhua News (@XHNews) August 15, 2024

Public Awareness and Vaccine Acceptance

A cross-sectional online survey in China found that 62.7% of participants were concerned about monkeypox, indicating a significant level of public awareness. Encouragingly, 68.8% of participants expressed willingness to adopt the monkeypox vaccine. Another study showed that 76.4% of 521 Chinese participants were open to receiving an mpox vaccine, suggesting a positive attitude towards preventive measures.

However, a survey conducted in Shenzhen revealed that while 77.9% of participants had heard of mpox, only 65.3% were aware of the global outbreak. This highlights the need for continued community-based health education and targeted interventions to improve public awareness and knowledge of mpox.

Global Context and China’s Role

The global mpox outbreak in 2022 led to over 80,000 reported cases across 112 countries, prompting the WHO to declare it a global health emergency. As a major global player, China’s efforts to contain the virus are crucial not only for its own population but also for preventing further international spread.

China is currently at low risk of a monkeypox outbreak and the authorities will likely adjust prevention measures if the outbreak worsens, Chinese epidemiologist said, after the WHO chief considers calling emergency committee to address the virushttps://t.co/ZQ6QgHNELo pic.twitter.com/uGa3qzclDX

— Global Times (@globaltimesnews) August 5, 2024

Experts suggest that China should list mpox as a notifiable disease and implement all necessary control measures. This includes adopting strategies that have proven effective in other countries, such as the smallpox vaccinations for high-risk populations in the USA, which have been successful in preventing mpox.

Regional Cooperation and Preparedness

China’s response to the mpox outbreak is part of a broader regional effort to combat the virus. Neighboring countries are also taking action, with Japan planning to raise awareness among travelers and send Japan-made vaccines to Congo. South Korea’s Korea Disease Control and Prevention Agency (KDCA) has stated that while the situation is manageable, they will bolster quarantine and surveillance measures.

As China continues to strengthen its mpox prevention and control measures, the country’s actions will play a significant role in shaping the global response to this health challenge. By learning from international experiences and implementing targeted strategies, China aims to contain the outbreak and prevent it from becoming a more severe global health crisis.