"Record-Breaking Mpox Outbreak in Congo: UN Confirms First Sexual Transmission"

The Democratic Republic of Congo is experiencing its largest-ever outbreak of mpox, with nearly 600 deaths and over 11,000 infections reported this year. The virus, previously spread through animal-human contact, is now rapidly spreading between humans. The World Health Organization warns of the significant risk of further spread to neighboring countries and worldwide. The outbreak has been attributed to a strain of the virus that is distinct from the one that caused a global outbreak last year. The DRC's poor health infrastructure and limited response capacities pose challenges in controlling the outbreak. Mpox, formerly known as monkeypox, is a zoonotic virus with common symptoms including skin rash, fever, and swollen lymph nodes. Severe cases may require hospitalization and antiviral medication.