Russia’s response to the global mpox outbreak has been notably indifferent, with officials attributing the low risk of the virus in their country to its so-called “traditional values.” This stance starkly contrasts with the global alarm raised by the World Health Organization, which has declared mpox a global health emergency.
Anna Popova, head of the Russian consumer protection watchdog, recently reinforced this view, stating that mpox poses little to no threat in Russia. Popova’s assertion that the virus will not spread due to Russia’s cultural norms has raised eyebrows, particularly in light of the virus’s transmission patterns. While mpox is not exclusive to any sexual orientation, it is spread through close physical contact, including coughs and sneezes, making such dismissive statements problematic.
Popova’s comments come as cases of mpox continue to be reported across various regions, including Africa, Sweden, and Pakistan. The new strain, Clade 1, has been identified as deadlier than the strain responsible for the previous outbreak, Clade 2. Despite the global concern, Russia has reported only a handful of cases, all of which, according to Popova, were contained efficiently.
Russia’s stance on mpox is reflective of its broader approach to LGBTQ+ issues. The country has a notorious history of anti-LGBTQ+ policies, with President Vladimir Putin leading efforts to curb LGBTQ+ rights, including the recent ban on gender-affirming surgeries. The connection between the Russian government’s dismissal of mpox risks and its stance on LGBTQ+ rights is a troubling reminder of how health crises can be politically manipulated to reinforce existing prejudices.
As the world grapples with the spread of mpox, Russia’s response serves as a stark reminder of how cultural and political ideologies can influence public health strategies, often at the expense of those most vulnerable. The global community continues to call for a coordinated response to halt the spread of this virus, but in Russia, the adherence to “traditional values” seems to overshadow these urgent health concerns.
