PREGMPOX – Safeguarding Maternal Health Against MPOX.

Every pregnant mother deserves healthcare access in the Mpox fight. But how?

Unveiling the threat: Exploring the risk of Mpox on pregnancy outcomes amid rising cases

Save lives, build resilience and enable transformational community development.

We are an African-led consortium investigating the impact of Mpox on pregnancy outcomes.

Since early 2023, suspected cases of MPXV infection have increased in the DRC, with a new sub-lineage, Clade Ib, emerging within Clade I. The PREGMPOX study aims to assess the impact of MPXV on pregnancy and its outcomes, providing essential data on the clinical features and risks during pregnancy. This research will support public health efforts, especially in screening and managing the ongoing Mpox epidemic in the DRC.

Shading light on the risk between Mpox & pregnancy outcomes

Increased Risk of Severe Sickness

Pregnant women have a suppressed immune system to protect the fetus, making them more vulnerable to infections like MPXV. This can lead to more severe symptoms, prolonged illness, and a greater need for medical care.

Potential for Pregnancy Complications

MPXV infection during pregnancy increases the risk of complications such as preterm labor, miscarriage, or stillbirth, particularly in severe cases, due to the virus affecting the fetus or causing complications in maternal health.

Vertical Transmission

MPXV can be transmitted from mother to fetus during pregnancy, potentially causing congenital infections. This may lead to symptoms like skin rashes, respiratory issues, birth defects, or even neonatal death, emphasizing the need for prevention and care.

Protecting mothers and newborns from Mpox

Investigate Clinical Features and Risks

Study the impact of MPXV on pregnancy outcomes, focusing on clinical features, associated risks, and the biological effects on pregnant women and their fetuses, including complications like miscarriages, stillbirths, and preterm births.

Geographical Mapping and Surveillance

Map the spread of mpox among pregnant populations in South Kivu and neighboring regions using both passive surveillance (existing health data from local facilities) and active surveillance (direct community engagement to identify unreported cases).

Community Education and Risk Prevention

Develop and implement strategies to educate the community about mpox risks, preventive measures, and the importance of reporting symptoms and cases, while uncovering spatial risk factors and social or environmental determinants influencing outbreaks.

Evaluate Vaccination and Treatment Safety

Investigate the safety and effectiveness of the MVA-BN vaccine and tecovirimat antiviral treatment in pregnant women by creating a comprehensive register to track adverse pregnancy outcomes linked to these interventions.