News > Mpox: New strain that spreads from skin to skin contact becomes latest worry

Mpox: New strain that spreads from skin to skin contact becomes latest worry

A newly identified strain, which may spread more easily, has been detected in the eastern province of South Kivu, exacerbating challenges in a region already dealing with multiple crises. In September 2023, mpox spread to South Kivu, previously unaffected by the disease, leading to the identification of a new strain that may be more infectious. The WHO indicated that the virus then spread from South Kivu to the neighbouring province of North Kivu.