TAIPEI (TVBS News) — The Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MOFA, 外交部) on Tuesday (Aug. 20) updated travel warnings for seven countries, including the Democratic Republic of the Congo, due to a sharp rise in the African mpox outbreak. The ministry urged citizens to exercise caution.
The World Health Organization (WHO) declared the outbreak a "public health emergency of international concern." Since May, the Democratic Republic of the Congo has been the epicenter, with the virus spreading to six neighboring countries and over 15,600 cases reported.
The Centers for Disease Control (CDC, 疾管署) on Aug. 15 raised the travel advisory for the Democratic Republic of the Congo to "Level 2: Alert." The CDC also upgraded the advisory for six neighboring countries, including the Central African Republic, the Republic of the Congo, Burundi, Kenya, Rwanda, and Uganda, to "Level 1: Watch."
Chen Yung-po (陳詠博), deputy head of the MOFA's Department of West Asian and African Affairs (亞西及非洲司), advised the public during a press conference to take extra precautions when traveling to these high-risk nations. He emphasized following CDC guidelines and protective measures to ensure safety.
As the situation evolves, travelers should stay informed and heed official travel advisories. The MOFA and the CDC will continue to monitor the outbreak and provide updates.