South Sudan’s Ministry of Health has declared its first mpox outbreak after confirming a case in the capital, Juba. The announcement was made on February 7, 2025, following the diagnosis of a 31-year-old Ugandan national residing in Kapuri Camp.

According to health officials, the patient began showing symptoms—including fever, rash, and body itching—on January 22. He had recently traveled to Uganda, where an active mpox outbreak has been ongoing since 2024.

Acting Health Minister James Hoth Mai confirmed that the National Public Health Laboratory verified the mpox infection on February 6. The patient has since been isolated and is receiving treatment at Gudele Hospital. In response, health authorities, in collaboration with the World Health Organization (WHO) and other partners, have mobilized a team to conduct field investigations, identify contacts, and monitor potential further infections.

Mpox is a viral zoonotic disease that primarily spreads from animals, such as wild rodents, to humans. However, human-to-human transmission can occur through direct contact with skin lesions, bodily fluids, or contaminated materials like bedding.

To contain the outbreak, the Ministry of Health has activated the Public Health Emergency Operation Center and urged healthcare workers to remain vigilant. Private clinics and hospitals have been advised to adhere to standard operating procedures and report any suspected cases immediately.