A deadly new strain of mpox is raising alarm

MPOX is a contagious illness commonly seen in certain areas of Africa and transmitted through contact with animals carrying the virus, and also within families. It leads to high fever, symptoms similar to the flu, and a skin rash filled with pus blisters all over the body. In 2022, the illness, previously known as monkeypox, spread globally, with reported cases in countries like Nigeria, America, and Australia. A new strain of the virus has been identified, with some experts labeling it as the most harmful variant to date. There are now concerns that this strain could move beyond the borders of the Democratic Republic of Congo and reach nearby nations such as Rwanda, Burundi, and Uganda.

Even though there is still a lot we don't know about this virus, Jean Claude Udahemuka, a teacher at the University of Rwanda who has been researching the outbreak, says that around 5% of adults and 10% of children are dying from it. This virus spreads in different ways and affects children more than adults. On June 25th, the World Health Organization stressed the importance of addressing the increase in mpox cases in Africa as soon as possible.