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Mpox Outbreak in the Democratic Republic of Congo Raises Concerns

Widespread Outbreak of Clade I Monkeypox Virus

The Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) is facing an extensive outbreak of clade I monkeypox virus (MPXV), which is more prevalent than any previous recorded in the country. Clade I MPXV has the potential to cause more severe illness compared to other strains.

Increased Observations of Clade IIb Clusters in the US

Health officials are closely monitoring an increase in clusters of mpox clade IIb in the United States. This heightened surveillance is prompted by the approaching summer festival season, which could facilitate the spread of the virus.

High Case Count and Fatalities in the DRC

As of the latest reports, over 14,000 cases of mpox have been documented in the DRC, resulting in 511 fatalities. The current outbreak is significantly more severe than previous ones within the country.