Barbados’ Ministry of Health has confirmed three new cases of Mpox, bringing the country’s total to six since the virus was first detected locally in 2022.
The three patients—one woman and two men—were identified in August, the ministry announced on Saturday. None of the individuals have a recent travel history, though two are known to have been in contact with each other. All have been able to isolate at home as health officials continue contact tracing.
Mpox, a viral infection that spreads through close contact with an infected person, can be transmitted via intimate or sexual contact, everyday household interactions, or within healthcare settings where protective equipment is not properly used. Contaminated materials such as clothing and linens can also carry the virus.
Symptoms typically include a skin rash or lesions in the mouth, nose, or genital area, along with fever, headache, muscle aches, back pain, fatigue, and swollen lymph nodes. Illness generally lasts two to four weeks, and while most people recover fully, a small percentage of cases worldwide have resulted in death.
The Ministry of Health noted that all Mpox cases identified in Barbados to date have resolved, but urged anyone experiencing symptoms to seek medical attention and remain isolated until lesions are completely healed to prevent further spread.
