Zimbabwe has reported its first two cases of mpox, according to the country’s health ministry, marking the nation’s entry into the global fight against the viral disease. The announcement, made on Sunday, did not specify the variant of the virus responsible for the infections.
The first patient is an 11-year-old boy who began exhibiting symptoms after returning from a trip to South Africa last month. The second case involves a 24-year-old man who fell ill following travel to Tanzania. Both patients are currently recovering, and health authorities are conducting contact tracing to determine possible spread.
The two cases were identified in Harare, the capital city, and Mberengwa, a town located in the southern part of the country. The health ministry assured the public that the situation is under control and emphasized that there is no need for panic. The ministry also urged Zimbabweans to follow health guidelines to prevent further transmission.
The World Health Organization (WHO) had declared mpox a global public health emergency in August 2024, citing concerns over a new variant, referred to as “clade 1b,” that appears to be spreading more easily than previous strains. This variant has been linked to outbreaks in the Democratic Republic of Congo and surrounding countries, sparking fears of its potential to spread globally through routine close contact.
Douglas Mombeshora, Zimbabwe’s Minister of Health and Childcare, expressed confidence that the situation would be managed effectively and reassured the public of the government’s preparedness. “The Ministry of Health and Childcare wishes to reassure the public that the situation is under control and urges the Zimbabwean public not to panic,” Mombeshora said in the statement.
In addition to Zimbabwe, neighboring Zambia also reported its first mpox case last week, though the strain involved was not disclosed. While mpox is generally mild and presents with flu-like symptoms and characteristic pus-filled lesions, the disease can occasionally lead to serious complications or death, particularly in vulnerable populations.
Authorities are urging citizens to remain vigilant and continue practicing hygiene and safety measures to prevent further cases as they monitor the evolving situation.
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