Two male residents in Skopje have become North Macedonia’s initial cases of mpox, sparking significant concern about public health in the region.
At a Glance
- North Macedonia reports its first cases of MPOX
- Symptoms are similar to smallpox, including fever and skin lesions
- Government implementing containment and treatment measures
- International collaboration emphasized
First Cases Reported in Skopje
North Macedonia has confirmed its first mpox cases in the capital, Skopje. The infected individuals are two males, born in 1985 and 1981, with no travel history abroad and no connection between them. This has raised concerns as it indicates local transmission of the virus. Health authorities have confirmed the cases through three different laboratory tests, ensuring accuracy in diagnoses.
Marija Andonovska, the director of the Institute for Public Health, stated, “Two male persons born 1985 and 1981 are infected with monkey pox. They are not connected cases.” Authorities have enacted containment measures, including contact tracing and quarantine protocols to prevent further spread.
Symptoms and Public Health Measures
MPOX, closely related to smallpox, presents symptoms such as high fever, rash, and respiratory distress. Health officials emphasized the importance of a robust public health infrastructure to handle the outbreak. Deputy Health Minister Jovica Andovski confirmed that treatment protocols are ready, asserting that the disease is not new, but public vigilance is critical.
“North Macedonia announced on Friday that the country has recorded its first cases of MPOX, marking a significant development in the public health landscape of the Balkan region.” – North Macedonia
Authorities are coordinating with other institutions for further response actions, emphasizing the urgent need for international cooperation and information sharing to effectively manage this public health threat.
Global Implications and WHO Alert
Mpox was initially identified in the Democratic Republic of Congo in the 1970s and stayed largely within African regions. However, it has gained international attention since its spread in 2022. The World Health Organization (WHO) declared its highest level of alert for mpox in 2024, stressing the global health threat it poses.
The emergence of mpox in new regions like North Macedonia highlights the need for global health cooperation and shared research efforts to control its spread and develop effective treatments.
