Morocco has reported its first case of mpox in the city of Marrakech, according to the health ministry. This case marks the country’s first since the World Health Organization (WHO) declared the ongoing outbreak a public health emergency of international concern last month. The outbreak has been fueled by a new variant of the virus spreading in central Africa, though Moroccan authorities have not specified which variant the patient has contracted.
The man is receiving medical care and is in stable condition, the ministry confirmed. Authorities in Morocco are tracing and monitoring all individuals who came into contact with him, though none have shown any symptoms so far, as per a statement released on Thursday afternoon.
How Does Mpox Spread?
Mpox primarily spreads through close physical contact with an infected individual or by touching contaminated objects like bedding, clothing, and towels. While the infection often clears up on its own within 14 to 21 days, it can be fatal, particularly for vulnerable groups such as young children. Severe cases can result in lesions spreading across the body, including the eyes, mouth, and genitals.
In 2024, over 20,000 cases and 500 deaths have been recorded in 14 African countries, with the Democratic Republic of Congo being the most affected, reporting over 5,000 cases this year. Vaccines are crucial in preventing the virus’s spread, and while they have arrived in the DR Congo, distribution challenges mean that it could take weeks for them to reach the hardest-hit regions.
WHO director-general Dr. Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus stressed the need for a coordinated global response to halt the spread and save lives.
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