The Republic of the Congo has reported 19 confirmed cases of mpox, as per the latest epidemiological surveillance data from the Ministry of Health and Population. The cases, recorded between 9 January and 9 April, were identified across the departments of Lekoumou, Cuvette, Plateaux, and Pointe-Noire.
In a statement issued on Friday, the Congolese government sought to reassure the population, affirming that while the presence of mpox has been confirmed, the epidemic remains under control. The government underscored the necessity for stringent adherence to preventive measures to curtail the spread of the disease.
Among the recommended precautions are the regular and thorough washing of hands with clean water and soap, the sanitisation of living environments, and the avoidance of contact with wild animals, irrespective of whether they are alive or deceased. Additionally, the population has been advised to avoid contact with individuals suspected or confirmed to be infected with mpox.
The statement further elaborated on the symptomatic presentation of mpox, which includes fever, headaches, fatigue, swollen lymph nodes, muscle pain, and a distinctive generalised rash, particularly on the palms of the hands and the soles of the feet.
This announcement comes against the backdrop of global health authorities, including the World Health Organization (WHO) and the Africa Centres for Disease Control and Prevention (Africa CDC), recently declaring the ongoing mpox outbreak a public health emergency.
The situation demands vigilance and compliance with public health directives as the Republic of the Congo navigates this latest health challenge.
