Guinea-Bissau detects first mpox case, declares national health alert

Guinea-Bissau has declared a national health alert after confirming its first case of mpox, the disease formerly known as monkeypox. The announcement came from the Minister of Public Health, Quinhin Na Ntote, who detailed the case of a 27-year-old woman.

The patient first sought medical attention on June 24. Samples collected from her skin lesions were sent for analysis to the National Institute of Public Health Laboratory and the Pasteur Institute in Dakar. Both facilities confirmed the presence of the mpox virus.

“

After analyzing samples collected from skin lesions, the patient tested positive for the mpox virus. These same samples were sent to the Pasteur Institute in Dakar, which also confirmed the infection.

In response, Guinea-Bissau has activated its national response plans in line with international health regulations and World Health Organization directives. Epidemiological investigations are underway to trace the patient's contacts, and surveillance has been enhanced at the country's borders and nationwide. The public is urged to take precautions, including frequent hand washing and avoiding close contact with individuals exhibiting fever or skin rashes.

Globally, as of May 31, mpox had caused 185,882 cases and 509 deaths in 144 countries. Africa has recorded 36 deaths. The Centers for Disease Control in Africa had previously lifted the classification of mpox as a continental public health emergency in January, following the WHO's declaration of the end of the international health emergency in September 2025 due to a decline in cases.

“

The population is urged to take extreme precautions and adopt basic prevention measures such as frequent hand washing and avoiding close contact with people who have fever or skin rashes.