Monkeypox in Democratic Republic of the Congo

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 occurs mainly in forested areas of Central and West Africa. Most infections result from direct contact with infected animals, primarily primates and rodents. Person to person transmission can occur. Symptoms in humans commence with fever and a flu-like illness followed by the development of a skin rash.

Advice to Travellers

Monkeypox is an uncommon zoonotic infection that is rarely seen in travellers.

Travellers to Central and West Africa should:

• observe meticulous hand hygiene if visiting or caring for ill friends and relatives
• avoid contact with primates and rodents and avoid consuming undercooked meat from these sources
• wear protective clothing, including gloves, if involved in the slaughter or care of animals in these regions

A vaccine against monkeypox is not widely available. Prior smallpox vaccination is protective. First generation smallpox vaccine is no longer available.

For further information see Monkeypox.