The recent surge in mpox cases in Minas Gerais has brought the total to 13 confirmed instances as reported by the State Health Department. On Thursday, a new case was identified in Contagem, located in the Greater Belo Horizonte area. Most of the confirmed cases, specifically eight, have been reported in Belo Horizonte, with additional cases in Contagem and Ribeirão das Neves, and one in Formiga, highlighting the concentration of the disease in specific urban areas.

The patients are predominantly men aged between 25 to 56 years, and health officials have reported that all individuals are recovering. Mpox, caused by the monkeypox virus, is transmitted through direct contact with skin lesions, body fluids, and contaminated materials. Symptoms range from skin lesions and swollen lymph nodes to fever and body aches, making it crucial for health authorities to monitor and control the outbreak effectively.

Preventative measures include minimizing contact with individuals showing symptoms of mpox or those confirmed to be infected. The State Health Department continues to provide guidance on symptoms and treatment, emphasizing the importance of public awareness in curtailing further spread of the virus in the region, particularly in densely populated areas like Greater Belo Horizonte.