Abstract:
Introduction: Mpox (monkeypox) is an emerging viral disease transmitted primarily through close contact with an infected person or contaminated objects. In Côte d’Ivoire, 109 cases have been reported since 2024. On May 6, 2025, four suspected cases of mpox were reported in the village of Cebly, Toulepleu health district, prompting an investigation to confirm the existence of an outbreak and guide response measures.
Methods: A descriptive case study was conducted from May 7 to 16, 2025 in the village of Cebly. All suspected, probable, and confirmed cases, as well as their contacts, were included. Data were collected using notification and investigation forms, individual interviews, clinical observations, and review of patient records. The biological specimens were analyzed at the reference laboratory (IPCI). The analysis focused on the sociodemographic, clinical, and spatio-temporal characteristics of the cases.
Results: Nine cases were identified, including four confirmed cases and five probable cases, corresponding to a positivity rate of 44.4% and an attack rate of 1.6%. The median age was 12 years (range 3–46 years), with a predominance of males (M:F ratio = 2). Children and adolescents, most of whom were students, were the most affected. The predominant clinical signs were fever and skin rashes. The majority of cases belonged to the same family or lived in the immediate vicinity, suggesting human-to-human transmission.
Conclusion: The investigation confirmed a localized mpox outbreak in Cebly, linked to intrafamilial and community transmission facilitated by close contact and delays in seeking care. Prompt case management, community awareness campaigns, and contact tracing helped contain the outbreak, underscoring the need to strengthen epidemiological surveillance.
Keywords: Monkeypox, Investigation, Toulepleu, Côte d’Ivoire.
Biography:
Dr BEAHAN Sosthène Pamela Marianne, field epidemiologist. Holder of a doctorate in medicine at the Gamal Abder Nasser University of Conakry, I am a first-year student of public health at the Félix Houphouët Boigny University in Abidjan. I work as a chief physician at the urban health center of Nézobly and I hold the position of interim head of the Health Action Service (CSAS) of the Departmental Directorate of Toulepleu.
