Zimbabwe heightens Mpox surveillance amid continued outbreaks

Health ReporterZimbabwe has stepped up disease surveillance and screening at all ports of entry in response to renewed global outbreaks of Mpox, formerly known as monkeypox, despite recording no new local cases so far this year.This comes after the World Health Organisation (WHO) reaffirmed that Mpox remains a Public Health Emergency of International Concern (PHEIC), with outbreaks continuing in parts of Africa, including some SADC countries, raising the risk of cross-border transmission.Mpox is a viral disease related to smallpox It spreads primarily through close physical contact, including within households and healthcare settings that lack adequate protective measures.Although traditionally endemic to certain African regions, recent outbreaks have emerged in non-endemic countries, prompting renewed global concern.Although the country is currently free of active cases, Zimbabwe’s experience with the disease in 2024 has kept authorities on high alert.“While Zimbabwe currently has no confirmed cases of Mpox, its resurgence has been noted in several regions, including non-endemic countries,” said Ministry of Health and Child Care spokesperson Mr Donald Mujiri.“We are guided by WHO recommendations and have strengthened our surveillance mechanisms to quickly detect and respond to any suspected cases.”He said the increased risk of cross-border transmission had prompted the Ministry of Health to intensify monitoring efforts.Zimbabwe confirmed its first two cases of Mpox in October 2024 The first involved an 11-year-old boy from Harare who had returned from South Africa and began showing symptoms The second case was a 24-year-old man from Mberengwa who had travelled to Tanzania and developed symptoms.Both patients were placed in home isolation and later recovered fully

The Ministry, in collaboration with local health teams, conducted thorough contact tracing and intensified awareness campaigns in the affected communities.The 2024 outbreak prompted the activation of Zimbabwe’s Mpox Preparedness and Response Plan, which included training of healthcare workers, distribution of protective equipment, and stronger border controls.Mr Mujiri said Zimbabwe remained on high alert and had activated its disease response systems in line with international health regulations.He encouraged the public to remain vigilant and adhere to preventative measures.“We urge Zimbabweans to avoid close contact with anyone showing symptoms such as rashes or lesions, and to avoid sharing personal items,” he said.“Good hygiene, mask-wearing in close-contact settings, and avoiding contact with wild animals are critical in preventing the spread of MpoxThe Ministry also advised the public to thoroughly cook food, especially meat, and to report any suspected cases to the nearest health facility.Share on FacebookPost on XFollow usSave

Originally published on Zimbabwe Herald

Source: Zimbabwe Herald