Mpox Breakthrough: First Case Reported in Fully Vaccinated Individual in Ireland
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- Mpox Breakthrough: First Case Reported in Fully Vaccinated Individual in Ireland
Ireland has reported the world’s first case of mpox in a fully vaccinated individual, despite the person having demonstrated a strong immune response following inoculation. This advancement, detailed in The Lancet Infectious Diseases, involves a 56-year-old man who presented with an unusual, small lesion on his nose, which tested positive for Mpox virus Clade IIb.
Details of the Breakthrough Mpox Case
the man had received two doses of the Modified Vaccinia Ankara-Bavarian Nordic (MVA-BN) vaccine two years prior to his diagnosis. The case was documented by Dr. Joanne Byrne at the Center for Experimental Pathogen Host Research (CEPHR) in University College Dublin (UCD).
Did You Know? The MVA-BN vaccine, also known as Jynneos, is a live, attenuated vaccine approved by the FDA for the prevention of mpox and smallpox in adults 18 years of age and older who are steadfast to be at high risk for either infection FDA.
The report highlights the atypical nature of the case, noting the patient’s unusual mpox symptoms. Researchers emphasize the need for healthcare providers to maintain vigilance for unusual mpox presentations in both vaccinated and unvaccinated individuals.
Implications for Mpox Vaccination Strategies
Professor Patrick Mallon, Principal Investigator of the All-Ireland Infectious Diseases (AIID) Cohort study and Director of CEPHR, stated, “This is the first reported case of breakthrough mpox in an individual with sustained antibody responses following vaccination.” He added that it “reinforces the need to better understand how immune responses to vaccination translate to clinical protection and further research into a potential role for booster vaccinations.”
Mpox, a viral infection spread through close contact, saw a global outbreak in 2022, predominantly affecting gay and bisexual men who have sex with men (MSM). While vaccination and behavioral changes led to a significant decrease in cases, outbreaks of Clade I virus continue in Africa, with multiple fatalities, primarily among women and children. Clade II cases are still reported in low numbers in Ireland.
Pro Tip: Staying informed about mpox symptoms and transmission methods is crucial for early detection and prevention. Consult your healthcare provider if you suspect exposure.
Ongoing Research and Future Directions
This case adds to a series of critically important findings on Mpox from UCD CEPHR.An analysis of over 120 participants within the AIID cohort, sampled two years post-vaccination, revealed significant reductions in antibody levels, raising questions about the potential need for booster vaccines. The group has also developed a mpox-specific antibody test, now used in clinical trials in Europe and Africa.
The Mpox-Vax study is actively enrolling adults eligible for vaccination at hospitals in Dublin, Galway, and Cork. This study aims to determine the duration of vaccine-induced immune responses and how effectively vaccine-induced immunity prevents infection.
In parallel, UCD leads a team of researchers from the DRC, Uganda, and Tanzania through the Mpox-Vax AFRIVAC consortium (funded by the EU) to study vaccine responses in populations affected by the ongoing Clade I mpox public health emergency.
Professor Eoin Feeney, Chief Investigator of the Mpox-Vax study, noted, “These studies will help define how long vaccine protection lasts and identify individuals who may still be at risk.” He emphasized that “understanding the trajectory of immune responses over time is key to informing effective future vaccination policies” and strongly recommended that individuals at risk of mpox infection in Ireland who have not been vaccinated come forward for vaccination.
Mpox Vaccine Effectiveness: Key Considerations
The effectiveness of mpox vaccines is a subject of ongoing research. While vaccines have proven beneficial in curbing the spread, breakthrough cases like this one underscore the complexity of viral immunity and the potential for waning protection over time. Factors such as individual immune responses,viral strain variations,and the interval between vaccination and exposure can all influence vaccine effectiveness.
| Metric | Value |
|---|---|
| Vaccine Used | Modified vaccinia Ankara-bavarian Nordic (MVA-BN) |
| Time Since Vaccination | 2 years |
| Virus Clade | Clade IIb |
| patient Age | 56 years |
Mpox: A Historical Perspective
Mpox was first discovered in 1958 when two outbreaks of a pox-like disease occurred in colonies of monkeys kept for research, leading to the name “monkeypox” CDC. The first human case was recorded in 1970 in the Democratic Republic of Congo. Before the 2022 outbreak, cases were primarily limited to Central and West Africa, frequently enough linked to exposure to infected animals or close contact with infected individuals.
The 2022 global outbreak marked a significant shift in the epidemiology of mpox, with widespread transmission occurring in non-endemic countries, primarily among men who have sex with men. This outbreak prompted increased awareness, vaccination campaigns, and research efforts to better understand and control the virus.
Frequently Asked Questions About Mpox
What are the symptoms of mpox?
Symptoms of mpox can include fever, headache, muscle aches, swollen lymph nodes, and a rash that may initially look like pimples or blisters. The rash can appear on the face, inside the mouth, or on other parts of the body, such as the hands, feet, chest, or genitals WHO.
How is mpox transmitted?
Mpox is typically spread through close, personal contact with an infected person or animal. this can include direct contact with the rash, scabs, or body fluids, as well as respiratory secretions during prolonged face-to-face contact. It can also be transmitted through contact with contaminated materials, such as clothing or bedding CDC.
Is there a treatment for mpox?
While most people with mpox recover on their own within a few weeks, antiviral medications, such as tecovirimat (TPOXX), may be used to treat more severe cases or in individuals at higher risk of complications. Supportive care, such as pain relief and wound care, is also important CDC.
Disclaimer: This article provides information for general knowledge and awareness only. It dose not constitute medical advice. Consult with a qualified healthcare professional for any health concerns or before making any decisions related to your health or treatment.
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