Government Initiates Precautionary Measures To Block Mpox Outbreak In Zimbabwe

The government has initiated precautionary measures to protect Zimbabwe from any potential outbreak of Mpox.

In a statement, the Ministry of Health and Child Care advised citizens to minimize contact with animals that might carry the virus. Mpox has crept into several African countries, with concerns it could spread to other regions. The Ministry also highlighted the risk of Mpox in non-endemic countries, including neighbouring South Africa, where many Zimbabweans reside.

ALO READ: Zimbabwe Government Targets Borders To Combat MPox Public Health Emergency

The Government Measures In Place To Combat An Mpox Outbreak in Zimbabwe

Although Harare city authorities confirmed last week that two suspected cases in the city tested negative, Health Minister Douglas Mombeshora said the government remains vigilant.

“While no cases have been reported in Zimbabwe, the Ministry is taking proactive measures to prevent the spread of the disease,” Mombeshora said.

He outlined key precautions:

“We urge the public to take precautions by avoiding contact with infected animals or materials, isolating infected patients, practising good hand hygiene, and using personal protective equipment when caring for patients.”

The minister reassured the public that the government is closely monitoring the situation and that response systems are in place to act swiftly if necessary.

“The Ministry has placed its structures on high alert and is conducting preparedness and response activities to ensure a swift and effective response if needed,” he added.

The Global Public Health Emergency

Government Measures Mpox Zimbabwe — *Government Initiates Precautionary Measures To Block Mpox Outbreak In Zimbabwe [Image: Sputnik]*

Last month, the World Health Organization (WHO) declared Mpox a global public health emergency. This rare viral infection, typically found in Central and West Africa, spreads through close contact with infected people, animals, or materials.

According to South African health publication Spotlight, the DRC has 90% of all MPox cases worldwide.

As of September 1, the WHO reported 3,751 confirmed cases of Mpox and 32 deaths across 14 African countries in 2024. However, numerous suspected cases remain untested.

South Africa has reported 24 cases of Mpox since January 2024. Three individuals have died, while 19 have recovered. Two people are still actively infected, with the latest case being identified in early August.

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