Dr. Alexander Myasnikov, a Russian doctor, announced a new mutation of the monkeypox virus that has raised concerns among health circles, indicating that the mutation dubbed "Clyde-1" has changed the prevailing understanding of how the disease spreads. While the data regarding deaths caused by the new strain is still incomplete, there are worrying signs that the virus may be more dangerous than previously thought, according to Vesti.ru.

Dr. Myasnikov explained that the World Health Organization declared a state of emergency in Africa last August due to the monkeypox outbreak. Over the past years, the virus has mutated, particularly in the Democratic Republic of Congo, leading to changes in understanding how it transmits. Previously, the prevailing belief was that the virus primarily spreads through close contact between individuals, especially among gay men, but with the emergence of the new mutation "Clyde-1," indications have begun to surface that the virus may be capable of spreading in other ways, raising concerns about its rising risks.

Myasnikov pointed out that the virus has infected more than 80,000 people in about 100 countries since its widespread outbreak in 2022, and with the new wave, the death rate is expected to rise to 10%, which is much higher than the previous outbreak. Despite these alarming figures, Myasnikov does not believe that monkeypox will be the next pandemic, but he warns that new viruses may emerge in the future.

To protect against various viruses, Myasnikov advises adopting a healthy lifestyle that includes proper nutrition, engaging in physical activity, and abandoning bad habits. He also emphasizes the importance of personal hygiene, such as regular handwashing with soap and water and avoiding direct contact with patients.