Deadly Mpox Strain Emerges in DR Congo, Raising Global Concerns

A highly contagious and deadly strain of mpox is spreading in the Democratic Republic of Congo, sparking fears of international transmission, the Gurdian reported yesterday.

According to the article, the new variant, affecting both adults and children, appears to be transmitted through sexual contact as well as non-sexual means.

Hundreds of cases have already been reported in the mining town of Kamituga, likely representing only a fraction of the outbreak. This mutated form of mpox carries a much higher fatality rate than previous strains, particularly among children and pregnant women.

Experts warn that the virus’s ability to spread through various routes, coupled with its virulence, makes it a significant global threat.  With limited access to vaccines and treatments in the DRC, and the region’s frequent cross-border travel, the potential for international spread is high.