The Ethiopian Health Ministry confirmed on Saturday the first death in the country due to mpox, with an additional five individuals still carrying the infection.
According to the ministry’s daily situation report, no new infections or recoveries have been recorded in the preceding 24 hours.
The report indicated that the five active cases are not considered severe at this time.
The initial confirmed cases in Ethiopia were reported just last week in Moyale, a town situated in the Oromia region near the border with Kenya.
These initial infections involved a family of three, including two parents and an infant, all of whom tested positive for the virus after exhibiting symptoms.
The source of these infections is currently under investigation.
In a statement, the ministry assured that they are “actively monitoring the situation and continuing our testing and surveillance efforts.”
As of May 31st, Ethiopia had conducted a total of 15 mpox tests, with the majority of these tests focused on areas where symptoms had been reported or among individuals who had been in close contact with confirmed cases.
The country’s response to the outbreak has included heightened surveillance in border towns and the implementation of public awareness campaigns.
Despite these measures, daily life in Moyale, a predominantly pastoral area, and the surrounding regions has largely continued without significant disruption.
