Malawi’s Health Minister, Khumbize Kandodo Chiponda, has announced two suspected cases of Mpox in the country.
The cases involve a 31-year-old man, currently isolated at Queen Elizabeth Central Hospital, and a 17-year-old boy being managed at home.
Both cases are located in Blantyre, and neither individual has a history of international travel.
Dr. Kelvin Mponda, Director at Queen Elizabeth Central Hospital, said the test results for the first patient are expected today.
Meanwhile, health officials have urged the public to remain calm and adhere to health guidelines, such as maintaining personal and public hygiene, to prevent the spread of the disease.
Health experts are reportedly meeting in Lilongwe to establish preventive measures against Mpox, a viral illness caused by the monkeypox virus (MPXV).
This virus, part of the Orthopoxvirus genus, is related to the viruses causing smallpox and cowpox. Mpox is characterized by symptoms like a painful rash, enlarged lymph nodes, and fever. Although most individuals recover fully, the disease can cause severe illness in some cases.
Mpox can be transmitted through close contact with infected individuals, animals, or contaminated materials.
To prevent the spread, it is crucial for those infected to inform close contacts, stay at home until fully recovered, cover any lesions, and wear a mask around others. Vaccination can also help prevent infection in people at risk.
The monkeypox virus was first discovered in 1958 in Denmark, and the first human case was reported in the Democratic Republic of the Congo in 1970.
Mpox has since re-emerged, particularly following the global eradication of smallpox. A significant global outbreak of the disease occurred between 2022 and 2023, caused by a strain known as clade IIb.
Health officials are closely monitoring the situation in Malawi as they work to prevent a potential outbreak.
