According to experts, taking preventive measures is the first step towards minimizing the spread of mpox – an infectious disease caused by the monkeypox virus.

Dr Edson Rwagasore, the Division Manager of Public Health Surveillance and Emergency Preparedness and Response at Rwanda Biomedical Center (RBC), said that mpox is an infectious disease that can lead to a painful rash, swollen lymph nodes, and fever.

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While most people recover fully, he noted, the illness can become severe, particularly in children, pregnant individuals, and those with weakened immune systems. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), mpox can affect anyone and it spreads through direct contact with an infected person or animal, contaminated materials, or respiratory droplets.

Symptoms

Dr Rwagasore noted that symptoms of mpox typically appear within a week but can manifest anywhere from one to 21 days after exposure. The illness generally lasts two to four weeks, he said.

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Common symptoms, according to WHO, of mpox are: