What's happened
The Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) is facing the largest outbreak of mpox, formerly known as monkeypox, with tens of thousands infected. A new, more deadly strain, clade Ib, has emerged, causing severe symptoms and high mortality rates, particularly among children. The outbreak, which began in May 2022, has spread to 22 of the DRC's 26 provinces. Health experts warn of potential international spread, urging global preparedness. The World Health Organization (WHO) has emphasized the urgent need to address the surge in cases.
Why it matters
This outbreak is significant due to the high mortality rates and severe symptoms associated with the new mpox strain, clade Ib. The disease's spread across the DRC and potential to reach neighboring countries poses a serious public health threat. The impact on children and pregnant women, with high rates of fatalities and miscarriages, underscores the urgency of the situation. Global health officials are concerned about the virus's ability to spread internationally, which could lead to widespread health crises if not contained. The situation demands immediate attention and action from the global health community.
What the papers say
According to Al Jazeera, the DRC is experiencing its largest mpox outbreak, with tens of thousands infected. Business Insider UK highlights the severity of the new strain, clade Ib, which has caused miscarriages and blindness. The Japan Times reports that over 60% of the 384 deaths this year were children. The Guardian emphasizes the virus's high transmissibility and its spread through both sexual and non-sexual contact. Sky News quotes Jean Claude Udahemuka from the University of Rwanda, who warns of the strain's potential international spread and high mortality rates.
How we got here
Mpox, formerly known as monkeypox, is a viral disease endemic to Central and West Africa. It is caused by the monkeypox virus, related to the smallpox virus. The disease typically spreads from animals to humans but can also transmit between people. In May 2022, an outbreak began in the DRC's eastern Kwango province and has since spread widely. The DRC government declared it an epidemic in December 2022. The World Health Organization declared a public health emergency in 2022 due to a global outbreak of a milder mpox strain, which ended last year. The new strain, clade Ib, emerged in September 2023.
Common question
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The Democratic Republic of the Congo, also known as Congo-Kinshasa, Zaire, DR Congo, DRC, the DROC, or simply the Congo, is a country located in Central Africa. It was formerly called Zaire.