Symptoms can be easily mistaken for other common childhood illnesses.
Mpox causes a rash and flu-like symptoms (Image: Getty)
Health workers are rushing to contain a deadly outbreak of mpox after hundreds of suspected cases were reported in Madagascar. Some 261 suspected and 94 confirmed cases had been recorded by the country’s Ministry of Public Health as of January 19.
Previously known as monkeypox, mpox is an infection that causes a rash and flu-like symptoms. An update from Save the Children warned that children under the age of five are most vulnerable to the virus, although the epidemic is primarily affecting adults. Tatiana Dasy, the charity’s country representative in Madagascar, said: “The emergence of mpox in Madagascar represents a new public health challenge for the country.
A rash typically appears one to five days after first symptoms (Image: Getty)
“Although the number of confirmed cases remains limited at this stage, the likely presence of local transmission justifies increased vigilance, a coordinated response by health authorities, and active community involvement to prevent wider spread.”
“We are particularly concerned about the potential impact on children, who are already among the confirmed and suspected cases.”
Symptoms include a high temperature, headache, muscle aches, backache and shivering. A rash usually appears one to five days after the first symptoms.
Symptoms of mpox can resemble other common childhood illnesses such as scabies and chickenpox, leading to late diagnosis and delayed treatment.
Risk of hospitalisation is higher for older people, young children and those with weakened immune systems.
The outbreak is said to be concentrated in the Boeny region of north-west Madagascar.
Health authorities have responded with measures including the isolation of confirmed cases, contact tracing and monitoring, and strengthening diagnostic capabilities.
Mpox can be passed from person to person through close contact, contaminated surfaces or coughs and sneezes.
