A new, more contagious variant of the Mpox virus (monkeypox) is currently spreading in the Democratic Republic of Congo. According to the WHO, the new variant could also reach Europe.
As the Congolese government announced on Saturday, the cabinet was informed a day earlier about an “exponential increase” in the number of cases.
Hundreds dead in Congo
There are now more than 11,000 suspected cases of the viral disease known for years as monkeypox, and 450 people have died. This means the mortality rate is four percent.
Even before the dramatic increase now being reported, the World Health Organization (WHO) had expressed concern that Mpox could spread beyond the borders of the Democratic Republic of Congo.
Virus is transmitted from infected animals to humans
It is a viral disease that can be transmitted from infected animals to humans. The WHO renamed the disease, previously known as monkeypox, to Mpox in 2022 to avoid stigmatization.
Mpox viruses were originally widespread, mainly in rodents in West and Central Africa. Transmission from person to person is also possible through close contact, such as during sex.
Mpox infections are usually much milder than smallpox, which has been eradicated for about 40 years. However, serious illness and death can also occur. The typical symptoms of the disease are fever and pustules on the skin.
In 2022, monkeypox cases also reached Europe
In May 2022, the disease began to spread outside Africa, especially in Europe. It is mainly men who have sex with men. As with Corona, the WHO declared a health emergency of international concern, which ended in May 2023. However, today there are still cases of infection in several countries.
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Source: Krone
I am Wallace Jones, an experienced journalist. I specialize in writing for the world section of Today Times Live. With over a decade of experience, I have developed an eye for detail when it comes to reporting on local and global stories. My passion lies in uncovering the truth through my investigative skills and creating thought-provoking content that resonates with readers worldwide.
