Africa on High Alert: Mpox Outbreak Spreads across Continent After Zimbabwe Confirms First Cases

The Africa Center for Disease Control has issued a warning that the continent is not safe following Zimbabwe’s confirmation of its first two Mpox cases. An 11-year-old boy from Mberengwa and a 24-year-old man from Harare contracted the disease after traveling to South Africa and Tanzania, respectively. Both patients are recovering well, and contact tracing has begun.

Mpox Outbreak in Africa

Zimbabwe’s Health Minister, Douglas Mombeshora, re-assures the public that the situation is under control, but the Africa Center for Disease Control urges intensified disease surveillance at ports of entry to contain the outbreak. Neighboring countries, Zambia and South Africa, have also reported cases, with Zambia detecting its first case last week and South Africa reporting 25 laboratory-confirmed cases since May, including three deaths.

Uganda’s Mpox Situation

In Uganda, Mpox cases have raised to 80, with five cases reported in Kampala, one in Wakiso, three in Nakasongola, and two in Masindi. The health ministry together with prisons has suspended all prison visits as a precautionary measure.

WHO’s Response

The World Health Organization (WHO) is working closely with Zimbabwe’s Ministry of Health and Child Care to combat the outbreak. Mpox typically causes flu-like symptoms and pus-filled lesions, and while it’s usually mild, severe cases can be fatal.

Prevention Measures

To prevent the spread of Mpox, it’s essential to:

Practice good hygiene: Wash hands frequently with soap and water or hand sanitizer

Avoid close contact: With anyone showing symptoms or having contact with someone infected

Stay informed: Follow health authorities’ guidelines and updates