Uganda Confirms Two More Mpox Virus Infections Amid Growing Concerns

Uganda reports two additional mpox virus cases, totaling four infections. The new cases involve the clade 1b strain, which spreads more easily. Confirmed by the health ministry, the patients are isolated in Entebbe. The virus causes flu-like symptoms and pustules, posing a fatal risk.

Uganda has confirmed two more mpox virus infections, bringing the total number of cases in the East African country to four, according to the health ministry.

The two new patients were infected with the clade 1b strain of the virus, a new variant identified by health ministry director-general Henry Mwebesa, which has triggered global concern due to its increased transmissibility.

The World Health Organization has declared this outbreak a public health emergency. The initial cases in Uganda were detected on July 24, with samples from patients near the Congo border testing positive. The latest cases were confirmed this week; one patient is a truck driver. Both are isolated at a hospital in Entebbe, 50 km south of Kampala.

(With inputs from agencies.)