Posted on May 5, 2025
The latest global situation report on the mpox outbreak reveals ongoing challenges and shifting trends in several countries, particularly across Africa. As of the end of March 2025, and with new data available up to late April, the World Health Organization (WHO) has released its 51st external situation report, highlighting important developments.
Mpox Clade Ib Spreading in Africa
The monkeypox virus (MPXV), particularly the clade Ib strain, continues to spread within communities in Africa. In the past six weeks alone, eleven African countries have reported local transmission of this variant. This raises significant concern for public health, especially in areas where outbreak response and containment are limited.
Uganda Leading in New Cases
Uganda has now emerged as the country with the highest number of newly confirmed mpox cases globally. The nation is recording between 200 to 300 new infections every week — all identified as clade Ib MPXV. This spike highlights the urgent need for robust response measures, including contact tracing, public education, and improved testing.
DR Congo Still the Most Affected Overall
While Uganda leads in weekly new cases, the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) remains the most affected country in terms of cumulative confirmed cases in 2025. Interestingly, the DRC has reported fewer new cases recently. However, this decline may not indicate true progress; instead, it might reflect decreased testing and diagnostic capacity. Both clades Ia and Ib are circulating within the country.
Burundi Shows Signs of Progress
There is some good news from Burundi. The country has seen a significant drop in mpox cases, falling from over 200 new weekly cases at the peak to fewer than 50 currently. This declining trend suggests that containment strategies may be working, though ongoing vigilance is still required.
Alarming Spike in Sierra Leone
In contrast, Sierra Leone has reported a sharp increase in mpox transmission. More than 200 new cases were confirmed in the past week alone. Health authorities are still gathering detailed data to better understand the outbreak dynamics in the country.
Why It Matters
Mpox remains a global public health concern, especially in settings where outbreaks aren’t swiftly controlled. Without quick containment and interruption of human-to-human transmission, the risk of sustained community spread remains high.
As always, the situation continues to evolve. Public health authorities and partners are working closely to contain the spread, enhance surveillance, and support countries in need.
Stay tuned for more updates, and remember — staying informed is the first step to staying safe.
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