Zambia has confirmed its second case of mpox, nearly three months after the country reported its first, amid a broader public health concern across Africa. The World Health Organization (WHO) revealed that nearly 14,000 cases and 60 deaths have been recorded across 20 countries on the continent, with the outbreak continuing to spread.
The most recent case in Zambia involves a 34-year-old woman from Kitwe in the Copperbelt Province. Her husband, who works in a neighboring country where mpox cases have been confirmed, exhibited similar symptoms earlier this month. Both individuals are reported to be stable and are receiving close medical monitoring. A rapid response team has been deployed to trace contacts and prevent further transmission, with eight individuals currently under observation. Nationwide surveillance efforts have also been ramped up to control the spread of the virus.
Zambia’s acting health minister, Douglas Syakalima, emphasized the need for the public to remain cautious. He advised citizens to avoid close contact, practice proper hygiene, and use personal protective equipment (PPE) to reduce the risk of infection. He also urged people to handle potentially contaminated items with care and to promptly report any symptoms to health authorities. Given the virus’s cross-border nature, Syakalima highlighted the importance of swift action in containing the outbreak.
The WHO’s latest report, published on December 23, provides a stark picture of the ongoing impact of mpox in Africa. The Democratic Republic of Congo remains the most affected country, with over 9,500 cases and 43 deaths. Burundi follows with more than 2,600 cases and one death, while Uganda has reported 1,027 cases and six deaths. Despite the continuing outbreaks, six countries have made progress and are entering the control phase.
To bolster global preparedness, the WHO announced that 4.7 million doses of mpox vaccine are available for distribution to affected countries. This move is part of the international effort to curb the spread of the virus and mitigate its impact across the continent. As mpox continues to challenge health systems, the WHO’s support and the cooperation of affected countries will be crucial in limiting its further spread.