Mpox Outbreak Worsens in Democratic Republic of Congo, WHO Issues Highest Level of International Alert

The Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) is facing a growing health crisis as the mpox outbreak worsens, with the country reporting 16,700 cases and “just over 570 deaths” since the beginning of the year. The outbreak has also spread to neighboring countries, including Burundi, Kenya, Rwanda, and Uganda.

According to Health Minister Samuel-Roger Kamba, the disease is increasingly affecting young people, with many children under the age of fifteen being impacted. The current outbreak is characterized by a more contagious and dangerous virus, with an estimated mortality rate of 3.6%.

The World Health Organization (WHO) has responded to the crisis by recommending that countries affected by the mpox variant initiate vaccination plans in areas where cases have emerged. The DRC has expressed hope to receive its first vaccine doses “next week.”

The surge in mpox cases has prompted the WHO to declare its highest level of international alert, raising concerns not only in Africa but also globally. The disease has also been diagnosed outside of Africa in Sweden, Pakistan, and the Philippines.

As the situation continues to unfold, the international community is closely monitoring the outbreak and working to contain its spread. The WHO is providing guidance and support to affected countries, and vaccination efforts are underway to protect people from the virus.

Additional sources: AP