UN agencies help in attempts to contain mpox in south, east Africa

A port health officer screens travelers at a border post between Kenya and Uganda in Malaba, Kenya, on Aug. 20, 2024. Several African nations are screening for mpox amid an outbreak spreading around the continent. Zimbabwe's health care system has strained under pressure before, such as in a cholera outbreak in January 2024. Public health officials want to block the current spread of mpox from entering the country rather than try to address the viral ailment after people are infected.

The United Nations said Thursday it is working with governments and health officials in Eastern and Southern Africa to contain the outbreak of mpox there.