The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has issued a warning regarding a new strain of the mpox virus detected in the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC). Known as Clade I MPXV, this highly infectious strain has not yet been detected in the United States, but the CDC urges clinicians to be aware of it while treating individuals who have traveled to Congo.

As a precautionary measure, the CDC has issued a travel health notice to individuals planning to travel to the DRC. Additionally, those who have recently visited the country are advised to seek medical care if they develop a new, unexplained skin rash or lesions, accompanied by or without fever and chills.

According to the CDC, Congo has reported a staggering 12,569 suspected mpox cases so far this year, a significant increase from the annual average of 3,767 cases witnessed in previous years. The outbreak has affected 22 out of the country's 26 provinces, including urban areas.

Considering the severity of the situation, the CDC has listed the outbreak as a level two advisory, urging people to practice enhanced precautions. This includes avoiding touching live or dead animals, refraining from consuming or preparing wild game, and maintaining distance from infected individuals and their belongings.

While an mpox vaccine is available, the CDC highlights that the vaccination rate in the United States remains low. Currently, only 1 in 4 eligible individuals have received both doses of the vaccine.

It is worth mentioning that mpox spread rapidly last year within the United States and in other countries, primarily affecting vulnerable populations, particularly among men who have sex with men. Health officials emphasize that while the virus may have disproportionately affected this demographic, it does not discriminate. Therefore, health officials have urged gay and bisexual men to take necessary precautions to stay safe.

Despite this alarming development, the World Health Organization declared mpox no longer a global health emergency back in May. It is important to note that while mpox has historically been associated with human-to-human contact, the CDC now reveals that non-sexual routes of transmission have also been identified.

As the situation evolves, the CDC will continue to monitor the mpox outbreak in the DRC and provide updated guidance to healthcare professionals and the public. It is essential for individuals traveling to affected areas to remain vigilant and follow the recommended precautions to prevent the further spread of this highly infectious virus.