The current outbreak of monkeypox has been declared by the World Health Organization (WHO) as a Public Health Emergency of International Concern (PHEIC). | Photo: Twitter @VTVcanal8

Montevideo, July 30 (RHC)-- The Ministry of Public Health (MSP) of Uruguay confirmed the finding in Montevideo of the first case of monkeypox in the South American country.

"The confirmation was carried out by PCR technique and is the only one in the country," the MSP reported Friday in a statement.  "The patient, who is stable and in isolation, has a history of travel in recent days," it added.

"In line with PAHO/WHO recommendations, the identification and follow-up of all contacts was initiated by the Health Surveillance department team," the MOH added.

"For the moment, no new suspected cases have been identified in relation to this case," the health portfolio pointed out.  The MOH reminded the population that "in case of symptoms related to monkeypox, consult your health care provider".