On September 30th, 2024, the University of Duhok (UOD) organized a significant symposium titled "Mpox: Understanding the Global Impact of a Re-emerging Virus," held at the Convention Center. This event was conducted in collaboration with the Syndicate of Veterinarians in the Kurdistan Region of Iraq, the Kurdistan Doctors Syndicate – Duhok Branch, the College of Veterinary Medicine, the University of Zakho (UoZ), and the Directorate General of Health – Duhok Branch. The aim was to equip healthcare professionals and the public with critical knowledge about Mpox, including transmission and prevention strategies.

Majid Sayid Salih, Deputy Governor of Duhok, opened the symposium with a welcoming speech emphasizing the importance of public health initiatives and the region’s dedication to supporting such efforts. This was followed by remarks from Dr. Mohammed S. Shukur, Dean of the College of Veterinary Medicine at UOD, who highlighted the collaborative efforts between healthcare and veterinary sectors in raising awareness about zoonotic diseases and protecting public health.

The first presentation, "Mpox: Veterinary Perspectives," was delivered by Dr. Nachervan M. Ghaffar from the College of Veterinary Medicine. Dr. Ghaffar detailed the zoonotic nature of Mpox, explaining transmission routes and the risks posed to both animals and humans. He emphasized the pivotal role of veterinary professionals in preventing zoonotic diseases and the necessity of enhanced surveillance and public health measures.

Following this, Dr. Muayad A. Merza from the College of Pharmacy presented on "The Role of Vaccination in Controlling Mpox." He provided an in-depth overview of Mpox, covering its symptoms, transmission, and the critical role of vaccination in controlling outbreaks. Dr. Merza stressed the importance of early detection, isolation, and vaccinating high-risk populations to prevent the spread of the virus.

A major highlight of the event was the panel discussion titled "Mpox: What Has Been Done and What Should Be Done?" Moderated by Dr. Azri S. Haji, a medical researcher, the panel included experts like Dr. Nawfal R. Hussein, Infectious Diseases Specialist and Dean of the College of Medicine at UoZ; Dr. Idrees Ahmed Qroo, Head of the Animal Diseases Department (Zoonotic Diseases) at UOD; and Dr. Jivan Qasim Ahmed, Virologist.

Dr. Jivan answered key questions regarding the emergence of viruses like Mpox, explaining that environmental changes, human-animal interactions, and viral mutations are crucial factors. He also emphasized that each virus emerges uniquely and discussed whether Mpox is more likely to emerge locally or through importation. According to Dr. Jivan, local transmission is less probable in Duhok, as most cases are linked to imported infections, although continuous vigilance is essential.

Dr. Idrees Ahmed Qroo highlighted the public health measures necessary to prevent an outbreak, stressing public education and caution in high-risk areas like zoos. He urged the public health authorities to be proactive in managing potential cases.

During the panel, Dr. Nawfal R. Hussein discussed whether Mpox could become a pandemic, noting that while it is a serious disease, it does not spread as rapidly as COVID-19 due to its transmission requiring close contact. Both Dr. Nawfal and Dr. Jivan agreed that proper precautions make the virus easier to contain.

The symposium concluded with a Q&A session, where attendees engaged with the panelists on various aspects of Mpox prevention and control. The experts emphasized the importance of personal hygiene, public health vigilance, and vaccination.

The event was highly praised for its valuable insights into Mpox and reaffirmed the University of Duhok's commitment to public health awareness and collaborative action against emerging infectious diseases.

UOD Media; October 4, 2024

Ismat M. Khabour and Fatima Mahmood

Photo: Ali Banki