Sierra Leone is facing a dangerous outbreak of mpox, with cases increasing by 61% within a week. Approximately half of Africa's confirmed cases are in this nation, indicating a widespread transmission across demographics. A new variant, G.1, identified through genomic analysis, has been spreading rapidly since late November. With cases doubling every two weeks, estimates show over 11,000 infections likely. The virus poses severe health risks, particularly to children, echoing previous experiences with outbreaks like Ebola, stressing the importance of timely intervention.
In just the first week of May, Sierra Leone experienced a 61% rise in mpox cases, highlighting a dangerous outbreak with the potential to escalate.
Genomic analysis has revealed a fast-moving new variant of mpox known as G.1, likely responsible for the increased human-to-human transmission.
Nearly all patients in Sierra Leone present severe rashes, about a quarter require hospitalization, and the infection potentially has already affected over 11,000 people.
The past experience with Ebola in Sierra Leone teaches that delay in response to outbreaks can lead to devastating consequences for health systems and economies.
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