The World Health Organization (WHO) has raised alarms over worsening mpox outbreaks worldwide, with Africa and the UAE facing significant challenges. According to a new report, the virus is evolving—and spreading faster than ever. 🚨
Africa Battles Mpox Surge
The Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC), Uganda, and Burundi remain hotspots, with Uganda reporting the second-highest case count in Africa over six weeks ending February 2, 2025. A deadly strain, clade Ib MPXV, first detected in 2023, is now causing community outbreaks in eight DRC provinces and neighboring countries, including Kenya and Zambia. 🌍
UAE Reports First Clade Ib Case
On February 7, 2025, the UAE confirmed its first clade Ib case linked to travel from Uganda. At least seven other global cases traced back to the UAE suggest potential local transmission. Meanwhile, the U.S. reported its fourth case in New York this week, with all patients having recent ties to East Africa. ✈️
WHO officials urge heightened vigilance, especially for travelers, as mpox continues to defy borders. 💉
