Russia confirms first mpox case as 1,800 contacts face monitoring

Russian health authorities have confirmed a case of mpox in Russia. The infected individual's 1800 contacts are now being traced and monitored. This comes as global figures show a steady rise in mpox infections over the past year.

The case was identified by Rospotrebnadzor, Russia's consumer health watchdog. Officials have begun tracking all known contacts of the infected person for medical observation. Each contact has been advised to self-isolate for 21 days as a precaution.

Mpox primarily spreads through close physical contact or exposure to contaminated objects. Data from outside Africa shows that 99% of cases affect adults over 18, with 97% occurring in men.

Russia's response includes using domestically developed PCR test kits. These allow for rapid diagnosis of mpox, helping to contain potential outbreaks. Meanwhile, the World Health Organization reports over 50,800 mpox cases in Africa within the last 12 months.

The confirmed case marks Russia's latest effort to control the disease's spread. Contacts remain under observation, while health officials rely on quick testing to limit further transmission. Global monitoring continues as mpox numbers climb in multiple regions.