Two Confirmed Mpox Cases in Zimbabwe

The Ministry of Health and Child Care has confirmed two cases of Mpox in Zimbabwe, one in Harare and another in Mberengwa. Both individuals are in home isolation and are recovering well.

Mpox, previously known as Monkeypox, has been declared a Public Health Emergency of International Concern by the World Health Organization (WHO). In Africa, there are over 7,500 confirmed cases and 32 deaths reported so far in 2024.

The first Zimbabwean case is an 11-year-old boy who traveled to South Africa in August and returned on September 10. He developed symptoms on September 23. Seven contacts have been identified and are being monitored.

The second case is a 24-year-old man who traveled to Tanzania on September 14 and returned on September 21. He developed symptoms on September 29. Contact tracing and monitoring are underway.

Mpox is a rare viral infection caused by the Mpox virus. It spreads through close contact with infected people, animals, or materials. Symptoms include fever, rash, headache, muscle ache, swollen lymph nodes, chills, exhaustion, and respiratory symptoms.The incubation period is usually 3 to 21 days, and the disease is typically self-limiting. However, it can be severe in individuals with compromised immunity.Mpox can be prevented by avoiding contact with infected individuals, sharing personal items with symptomatic people, and practicing good hygiene.

The Ministry of Health and Child Care has reassured the public that the situation is under control and urges people not to panic. Anyone with symptoms should report to the nearest health facility.

The Ministry has placed all its structures on high alert, including at all ports of entry. Preparedness and response activities include activating the National and subnational Incident Management Systems, training healthcare workers, conducting awareness campaigns, developing IEC materials, enhancing surveillance, identifying isolation centers, and updating the nation through regular press briefings.