Recent research reveals that the antiviral drug tecovirimat, used during the global mpox outbreak in 2022-23, did not significantly reduce the duration of sores for those infected with the Clade 1 strain of the mpox virus. This strain has been prevalent in the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) since around September of last year.
Tecovirimat, also known as TPOXX, was initially developed to treat smallpox, a more severe disease related to mpox. The drug was being tested in children and adults in the DRC to see if it could shorten mpox symptoms. However, the study, sponsored by the National Institutes of Health (NIH) and its National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases (NIAID), found that while the drug is safe, it does not improve recovery from Clade 1 mpox.
NIAID Director Jeanne Marrazzo acknowledged the disappointing results but emphasized that the findings highlight the need to explore other treatment options for mpox. She also mentioned that ongoing research on tecovirimat’s effectiveness in other populations with mpox is essential.
Despite the drug’s limited impact, researchers noted that participants who received supportive care, such as nutrition, hydration, and treatment for secondary infections, showed lower mortality rates and faster healing of lesions, regardless of whether they were given tecovirimat or a placebo. This suggests that proper care plays a crucial role in helping patients survive and recover from mpox.
The World Health Organization (WHO) has declared a global health emergency due to the spread of this highly contagious mpox strain in Africa and other regions. A report from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) indicates that 67% of suspected mpox cases and 78% of suspected deaths in the DRC have occurred in people aged 15 years and younger.