Healthcare professionals caring for a Mpox patient. The death toll from the Mpox epidemic continues to rise. A 29-year-old woman from Mampikony has succumbed to the disease. The announcement was made during the presentation of the epidemiological update on Mpox evolution in the country by Professor Diavolana Köcher Andrianarimanana, from the Public Health Emergency Operations Center (COUSP), on July 3. This new death brings the total number of Mpox-related victims to fifteen since the start of the epidemic. Children and people living with HIV/AIDS are among the most affected. Over the period from December 15, 2025 to July 4, 2026, 4,117 cases were reported. Among these, 2,636 were confirmed out of a total of 3,666 tests conducted. The report also shows 1,809 recoveries, with a positivity rate of 72%. Health authorities are also warning against risky behaviors, particularly unprotected sexual intercourse, which may facilitate virus transmission. They urge the population to follow barrier measures, such as wearing masks and regularly washing hands. Mpox is primarily transmitted through close contact with an infected person. "Prompt medical consultation is recommended as soon as suspicious symptoms appear, such as high fever, sore throat, intense fatigue, or muscle and back pain," said Professor Diavolana Köcher Andrianarimanana. Treatment is provided free of charge in treatment and isolation centers. Mialisoa Ida