Zambia has reported its first confirmed case of mpox, as announced by Health Minister Elijah Muchima. The patient, a 32-year-old male from Tanzania, traveled to Zambia from a neighboring country last month and began exhibiting symptoms earlier this month. He is currently receiving treatment at a healthcare facility in the Central Province, where medical staff are closely monitoring his condition.
Minister Muchima emphasized the potential health risks associated with the patient’s extensive travel history and interactions across multiple locations in Zambia, which raises concerns about local transmission and possible cross-border spread of the virus. In light of this confirmed case, the Ministry of Health, in collaboration with the Zambia National Public Health Institute (ZNPHI), has ramped up surveillance efforts and is actively conducting contact tracing to identify and monitor anyone who may have come into contact with the patient.
In his statement, Muchima urged the public to adhere to essential health and safety protocols, including minimizing close contact with others, practicing good hygiene, and seeking medical attention promptly if any symptoms arise. “We are committed to preventing the spread of this disease, and we want to reassure the public that our healthcare workers are fully equipped to manage suspected mpox cases effectively,” he said.
The Zambian government is working diligently to contain the situation and emphasizes the importance of public awareness and community engagement in the ongoing fight against mpox. Health officials are encouraging citizens to remain vigilant and informed to help curb the potential spread of the disease in the country.
