Health authorities in Western Equatoria State have sent 41 suspected Mpox samples to the national laboratory in Juba for confirmation as the state continues to monitor the spread of the viral disease following the confirmation of six cases, including one death.
The State Minister of Health, James Abdalla Arona, said the suspected cases were reported from three counties—Yambio, Ezo, and Tambura—between January and March 2026, prompting authorities to send samples for further testing at the national level.
Speaking to reporters, Arona confirmed that the state has so far recorded six positive Mpox cases at Yambio County Hospital, where patients are currently receiving treatment in isolation.
“The positive cases in Yambio County Hospital remain six, and from the six, one patient passed away on the 2nd of February as I told you last time,” Arona said.
He explained that although the number of suspected cases has increased, there have been no additional deaths since the February 2 fatality.
“The number of suspected cases is now 41 from three counties: Yambio, Tambura and Ezo. We are still waiting for the results. Those in the isolation center are still under medication and no new deaths have been recorded,” he added.
According to the health ministry, forwarding the samples to the national laboratory is part of efforts to confirm diagnoses and strengthen the public health response to Mpox in the state.
Officials say the laboratory results will help determine whether the suspected cases are confirmed infections and guide further containment measures.
Health teams have continued to monitor patients under isolation while strengthening surveillance across affected counties to prevent further spread.
Authorities are also urging communities to remain alert and report any suspected symptoms linked to Mpox, including skin rashes, fever, and swollen lymph nodes.
The Ministry of Health says early reporting and medical attention are critical in preventing the disease from spreading within communities.
Despite the rising number of suspected cases, officials insist the situation remains under close control as health workers continue monitoring patients and awaiting laboratory confirmation from Juba.
Mpox, formerly known as monkeypox, is a viral disease that spreads through close contact with infected individuals or contaminated materials and has been reported in several African countries in recent years.
Health authorities in Western Equatoria say they will continue updating the public once the laboratory results for the suspected cases are released.
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“The positive cases in Yambio County Hospital remain six, and from the six, one patient passed away on the 2nd of February as I told you last time,” WES State Minister of Health, James Abdalla Arona, said.
