A single case of mpox has been confirmed in Nakasongola prison in central Uganda, according to a prison spokesperson. The inmate is currently isolated and receiving treatment.

The outbreak, initially identified in the Democratic Republic of Congo earlier this year, was declared a public health emergency by the World Health Organization in August following the discovery of a new variant.

Frank Baine, spokesperson for the Uganda Prison Service, indicated that the inmate, charged with murder, likely entered the facility with the virus. Uganda’s total mpox cases have now reached 41, as reported last week. Health officials, including Ministry spokesperson Emmanuel Ainebyoona, are expected to provide further updates on the situation later today.