Mpox outbreak declared in South Sudan

The Ministry of Health has announced an outbreak of Mpox in Juba, the capital of South Sudan. This follows confirmation by the National Public Health Laboratory on 6 February of a case of Mpox in a Ugandan resident of Kupuri camp in Juba, who is now isolated and receiving treatment at Gudele Hospital. Samples from 141 suspected cases have been sent to specialized laboratories for confirmation. A team of experts coordinated by the WHO is conducting a detailed investigation to trace contacts and ensure close follow-up. The announcement enables preventive and containment measures to be put forth to combat the spread of the virus, said Humphrey Karamagi, WHO Representative in South Sudan. Karamagi reiterated the WHO’s commitment to assist the Government of South Sudan through support for case management, laboratory testing, sample collection, and follow-up. Health officials have been instructed to monitor five major entry points into South Sudan for suspected Mpox cases from neighbouring high-risk countries such as the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), Uganda, and Kenya. The Sudanese Minister has urged communities and health workers to adopt appropriate hygiene measures, follow standard operating procedures, and report suspected cases for further investigation. In light of the recent outbreak, South Sudan is the 22nd nation in the African region to be impacted by the spread of Mpox.