The Secretary of State for Health of Minas Gerais (SES-MG) reported on Monday, January 23, 2026, that three cases of Mpox have been confirmed in the state. The cases were identified in the metropolitan areas of Belo Horizonte and Contagem, and all three patients, who are males aged 35 to 45 years, have since recovered from the illness. The announcement comes after a significant increase in reported cases in previous years, with 135 cases confirmed in 2025 and 69 in 2024.

Mpox, a viral disease as defined by the Ministry of Health, presents a range of symptoms including skin lesions, swollen lymph nodes, fever, headaches, chills, and general weakness. Transmission primarily occurs through direct contact with skin lesions or contaminated objects, emphasizing the importance of hygiene and caution in public health measures. No specific medications for treating Mpox currently exist, and patients are managed through clinical support that focuses on symptom relief and the prevention of complications.

This confirmation of Mpox cases in Minas Gerais highlights ongoing public health challenges related to emerging viral diseases. The increase in cases over the previous years indicates a need for continued surveillance and education about the disease, as well as effective response strategies to protect public health, particularly in populous metropolitan areas. The recovery of the confirmed patients is a positive sign, but the report serves as a reminder of the risks associated with Mpox and the importance of public health responses in mitigating outbreaks.