Health authorities confirm mpox case in Guinea-Bissau

Bissau- The Minister of Public Health of Guinea-Bissau officially declared the confirmation of one mpox case in the country during a press conference held in the presence of the World Health Organization (WHO) Representative.

Laboratory confirmation was carried out by the Laboratory of the National Institute of Public Health (INASA) and submitted for external quality control to the Department of Virology of the Institut Pasteur de Dakar, which confirmed the same result. The genotyping process is ongoing.

Response by health authorities

Following confirmation of the case, the Ministry of Public Health activated the national response mechanisms, in accordance with the International Health Regulations (IHR-2005) and WHO recommendations. The measures include epidemiological investigation, contact tracing, strengthened surveillance, infection prevention and control in health facilities, community awareness-raising, and coordination with technical and financial partners.

Technical teams are conducting a rapid risk assessment to guide the appropriate response measures.

What to know about mpox

Mpox is an infectious disease caused by the monkeypox virus. Common symptoms include skin rash or mucosal lesions, which can last two to four weeks, accompanied by fever, headache, muscle aches, back pain, low energy and swollen lymph nodes.

Mpox can be transmitted through close contact with someone who has mpox, including physical or sexual contact, through contact with contaminated materials, or through contact with infected animals.

Guidance for the population

The population is advised to wash hands regularly with soap and water or an alcohol-based hand solution, avoid close contact with people presenting symptoms suggestive of mpox, and seek care at a health facility if symptoms appear. People with skin lesions should avoid scratching or manipulating the lesions, cooperate with epidemiological surveillance teams, and follow only official information.

Health institutions emphasize that accurate information, prevention and respect are essential to protect public health. Stigma and discrimination can discourage people from seeking care and undermine response efforts.

WHO reaffirms its commitment to protecting the health of the population and will continue to provide regular and transparent information on the evolution of the situation.