Tanzania has reported its first two cases of mpox, marking the country’s entry into the outbreak that has affected several African nations. The health ministry reported on Monday that two individuals showing symptoms were isolated and tested on Sunday. Health Minister Jenista Mhagama revealed that one of the individuals is a truck driver who recently traveled from a neighboring country to Dar es Salaam.
According to a report by the African Union’s health agency, 6,034 mpox cases have been recorded across 22 countries since January, with 25 fatalities. Mpox, which belongs to the same virus family as smallpox, spreads through close physical contact and leads to symptoms such as fever, muscle pain, and large, boil-like skin lesions. In severe cases, it can be fatal.
The World Health Organization declared a public health emergency of international concern in August 2024 due to the virus’s rapid spread.