Concerns are rising about a new, more dangerous strain of mpox, known as Clade Ib, which has recently been identified in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) and neighbouring countries.
This strain, which has been causing more severe outbreaks since September, is noted for its high transmissibility and higher mortality rate compared to previous strains.
The World Health Organization (WHO) is considering whether to declare an international emergency.
The Clade Ib strain has caused significant outbreaks in the DRC, with 14,479 cases and 455 deaths reported as of August 3, and has spread to Uganda, Burundi, Rwanda, and Kenya.
The African Union and the East African Community are urging increased public health education and prevention measures.
The outbreak is a continuation of the mpox crisis that began in 2022, which previously saw a global surge in cases.