By John Ikani
The Central African Republic has joined its neighbours in battling a growing Mpox outbreak. The disease, once confined to rural areas, has now reached the capital, Bangui, according to Health Minister Pierre Somse.
Worrisomely, the minister has reported that some families are hiding infected members due to the stigma associated with the disease, increasing the risk of wider spread.
The outbreak in the Central African Republic follows similar trends in Rwanda and Burundi, where new cases have been detected.
A particularly concerning new strain of Mpox has also been identified in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), with a mortality rate of around 10%. The DRC has recorded over 12,300 suspected cases and nearly 500 deaths this year alone.
Mpox, transmitted through close contact, contaminated objects, and respiratory droplets, can cause fever, muscle aches, and a distinctive rash. While treatable, the disease can be fatal if left untreated.
South Africa has also reported a small number of cases, including fatalities.
The recent surge in Mpox cases across Central Africa mirrors a global outbreak that occurred in 2022. While the disease is endemic in parts of the region, the current situation highlights the need for increased vigilance and public health measures to prevent further spread.
