The Ethiopian Ministry of Health has confirmed the country’s first death linked to mpox, with five additional cases still under observation.
In its latest daily update, the ministry reported no new infections or recoveries in the past 24 hours. The five existing cases remain active but are not considered serious.
The first outbreak was detected last week in Moyale town in the Oromia region, close to the Kenyan border. The first confirmed cases involved a family of three — two parents and an infant — who tested positive after showing symptoms. The source of the infection is still under investigation.
“We are actively monitoring the situation and continuing our testing and surveillance efforts,” the ministry said.
Ethiopian health authorities have conducted 15 tests as of May 31, focusing on symptomatic individuals and their close contacts. Surveillance in border towns has been increased, alongside public health awareness campaigns.
Despite the outbreak, daily life in Moyale and nearby pastoral communities has been minimally disrupted.
Since 2024, mpox has claimed at least 1,750 lives across Africa, according to regional health data.