Monkeypox in Democratic Republic of the Congo
18 Nov 2021
The World Health Organization reports there have been 2 780 cases of monkeypox (including 72 deaths) in Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) in 2021 up to the end of October. Monkeypox is widespread in DRC.
Monkeypox is an uncommon infection caused by the monkeypox virus. It occurs mainly in forested areas of Central and West Africa. Most infections result from direct contact with infected animals. Monkeypox does not spread easily between people but it is possible to catch it from having close contact with an infected person or touching their personal items. Symptoms of monkeypox are usually a high temperature (fever) and a flu-like illness followed by a skin rash.
Advice to Travellers
It is rare for travellers to become infected. If you are travelling to Central and West Africa, you should:
- practice careful hand hygiene if visiting or caring for ill friends and relatives
- avoid contact with primates and rodents and avoid eating undercooked meat from these animals
- wear protective clothing, including gloves, if you are involved in the slaughter or care of animals in these regions
A vaccine against monkeypox is not widely available.