Mpox likely to result in localised outbreaks

IN the past, mpox (formerly known as monkeypox) was considered a regional infectious disease primarily affecting Central and West Africa.

In recent months, however, there has been a sudden surge in cases, accompanied by the emergence of a more virulent Clade I strain. There have been over 15,600 cases globally this year, resulting in at least 500 deaths. The Democratic Republic of Congo has reported at least 450 deaths related to mpox complications.