Mpox outbreak in Africa leads to over 80 deaths

The mpox virus (previously known as monkeypox) continues to spread across African countries, resulting in more than 80 deaths, with an additional 4,000 cases reported over the past week.

Data from the African Centre for Disease Control and Prevention (ACDC), which monitors the continent's epidemiological state, reveals a total of about 22,800 cases of mpox infection across Africa, Caliber.Az reports, citing foreign media.

In response to the growing threat of mpox, Kazakhstan has implemented preventive measures to prevent the virus's entry into the country. The decree, issued by Nurkan Sadvakasov, the acting chief state sanitary doctor, came into effect on August 28.

The document, published on the website of the Health Ministry's Sanitary and Epidemiological Control Committee, directs local authorities to prepare infectious disease hospitals to handle potential mpox cases. It also emphasizes the importance of adhering to biological safety protocols in infectious disease facilities and other healthcare organizations. Additionally, healthcare organizations are required to maintain a minimum stock of medicines, disinfectants, and personal protective equipment.

To further prevent the spread of mpox, Kazakhstan has intensified sanitary and epidemiological controls at border crossings, airports, railway stations, and river ports. The Ministry of Transport is tasked with ensuring that all vehicles are equipped with personal protective equipment (PPE), such as masks and gloves, as well as hand sanitizers and disinfectants. The border service has also been instructed to monitor individuals entering Kazakhstan who have recently traveled to endemic countries within the past three weeks.

The Ministry of Health will collaborate with the World Health Organization (WHO) to monitor the spread of the infection and implement additional preventive measures if necessary. As of now, no cases of mpox have been reported in Kazakhstan.

Mpox is a viral disease that can infect both humans and animals. Symptoms typically include a rash that develops into blisters and crusts over time, fever, and swollen lymph nodes. While the disease is usually mild and most people recover within a few weeks without the need for treatment, the recent surge in cases highlights the importance of vigilance and preparedness.