In a chilling turn of events, the deadly Mpox virus has infiltrated a prison in Iowa, adding to the growing global concern. The highly contagious disease, known for its painful rashes and flu-like symptoms, has now been detected at Fort Dodge Correctional Facility. While the number of confirmed cases is still unclear, prison officials have assured the public that strict health protocols are in place.
Paul Cornelius, Chief of Staff for the Iowa Department of Corrections, emphasized in a statement, “We’re actively managing the situation with robust health measures.” The outbreak was first reported by local media KCCI-TV and confirmed by Des Moines Register.
This development comes after the World Health Organization declared a fresh global health emergency in August 2024, following the resurgence of a more dangerous Mpox strain. This strain, which emerged earlier this year, has claimed over 600 lives worldwide and spread rapidly across Europe and Asia.
According to the WHO report as of July 31, 2024, there have been nearly 103,000 confirmed Mpox cases globally, with 223 deaths. Experts have stressed that while Mpox is not airborne like COVID-19, it primarily spreads through close, unprotected physical contact, making hygiene and protective measures essential to curb transmission.
With new outbreaks cropping up, this latest prison infection raises urgent concerns about containing the virus within highly populated and confined environments.
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