Morocco reports first mpox case amid ongoing global outbreak

Morocco’s Ministry of Health reported the first mpox infection on Thursday after the WHO declared the ongoing viral outbreak a global health emergency.

The ministry confirmed that the patient, found in Marrakech, the North African country’s popular tourist destination, is being treated at a specialized medical facility in the city and is in stable condition.

“The patient is receiving appropriate medical care according to established health procedures and is under close medical observation to ensure stability,” it said.

However, the ministry didn’t provide details on whether the infection was linked to the clade Ib variant of the virus, which is driving the current mpox cases in Africa. The WHO has designated the outbreak a public health emergency of international concern (PHEIC).

Sweden and Thailand have reported cases linked to the clade Ib variant since the WHO issued the designation, its highest level of warning in August.

Morocco detected a few mpox cases in 2022 when the previous outbreak was in full swing, driven by the milder Clade 2b variant.