The Ministry of Health and Child Care has announced that Zimbabwe has recorded its first two confirmed cases of Mpox, formerly known as monkeypox. One case is in Harare, the capital city, and the other in Mberengwa, a district in the Midlands province. Both patients are currently in home isolation, receiving appropriate care, and are reported to be stable and recovering.

The Mpox virus is primarily transmitted through close contact with an infected person, contaminated materials, or infected animals. Symptoms include a skin rash or mucosal lesions, fever, headache, muscle aches, back pain, and swollen lymph nodes. While the global outbreak has mainly affected gay, bisexual, and other men who have sex with men, Mpox can affect anyone. The World Health Organization has reported over 100,000 laboratory-confirmed cases and 220 deaths worldwide since January 2022.

The Ministry’s prompt response and isolation measures aim to contain the outbreak. Zimbabweans are advised to remain vigilant and take preventive measures, including practicing good hygiene, avoiding close contact with infected persons, and wearing protective equipment. The public is also encouraged to seek medical attention immediately if symptoms arise.