New Mpox Strain Causes Surge in Infections Across Central Africa, With Focus on Democratic Republic of Congo

A new strain of Mpox is rapidly spreading across parts of Africa, notably in the Democratic Republic of Congo and Burundi, triggering a significant increase in infections and deaths. The World Health Organization has declared it an international health emergency. The Democratic Republic of Congo has recorded over 16,500 cases this year, with 570 fatalities. In Burundi, one of Africa’s poorest nations, there’s been a concerning rise in cases, with 171 confirmed this week. Limited public awareness, inadequate medical facilities, and a lack of vaccines are exacerbating the situation, making it difficult for health authorities to manage the outbreak effectively.

• The World Health Organization has declared Mpox an international health emergency.
• A new strain of Mpox is rapidly spreading in parts of Africa, with the Democratic Republic of Congo being the epicenter of the outbreak.
• More than 16,500 cases and 570 deaths have been recorded in the Democratic Republic of Congo this year.
• In Burundi, there has been a rise in Mpox cases, with 171 confirmed cases this week.
• Limited public awareness and lack of medical facilities and vaccines are significant challenges in combating the spread of Mpox in affected areas.
• Burundi’s health authorities are struggling with only one testing laboratory in the country, insufficient testing kits, and no vaccine access.
• Diagnosis delays and limited resources hinder effective response and containment efforts in Burundi.
• Public awareness about Mpox is very limited in Burundi, with many not knowing what it is or that it is spreading in their country.
• The need for an adequate vaccine is described as urgent to help contain the disease.

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