Central African Republic latest to report mpox outbreak

The Central African Republic has declared an mpox outbreak, with infections now reaching the capital, Bangui, after previously being confined to rural areas, according to Health Minister Pierre Somse. Stigma is causing some families to hide infected relatives, which increases the risk of further spread. Mpox, formerly known as monkeypox, is highly infectious and can spread through close contact, contaminated objects, and respiratory droplets. Symptoms include fever, muscle aches, and body lesions, and the disease can be fatal if untreated.

Recent outbreaks have also been noted in Rwanda and Burundi, and a new strain is spreading in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DR Congo). The DR Congo has reported over 12,300 suspected cases and 479 deaths in the first half of this year, with a new strain having an estimated 10% death rate. South Africa has recorded 20 cases, including two deaths. Mpox remains endemic in parts of west and central Africa, with a global outbreak occurring in 2022.