The World Health Organization (WHO) has confirmed a total of 3,135 monkeypox cases worldwide for the month of September 2023. This report, released on October 30, 2023, highlights that over 80 percent of these cases originated from the African region. The data collected spans across 42 countries and includes 12 fatalities associated with the virus.
As of the end of September, the cumulative total of confirmed monkeypox cases has reached 44,299 across 93 nations since the beginning of the year, resulting in a total of 180 deaths. The report emphasizes the ongoing global health challenge posed by the virus, particularly in regions where it has been newly detected.
New Cases and Regional Findings
The WHO’s report indicates that several countries have recently identified the clade Ib monkeypox virus (MPXV) for the first time. These nations include Malaysia, Namibia, the Netherlands, Portugal, and Spain.
Furthermore, new imported cases of monkeypox linked to clade Ib MPXV have emerged among travelers in Belgium, Canada, Germany, Italy, Qatar, and Spain. The WHO continues to monitor these developments closely as they unfold.
The organization’s findings serve as a reminder of the need for ongoing vigilance and preventive measures against the transmission of monkeypox, particularly in regions where the virus has seen a resurgence. Continued efforts in public health and awareness are essential to mitigate the spread of monkeypox globally.
