The Ministry of Health and Child Care has urged Zimbabweans to remain vigilant against Mpox, warning of a heightened risk of outbreak despite no confirmed cases in the country.
In a statement, the ministry said the World Health Organisation (WHO) has maintained Mpox — formerly known as monkeypox — as a Public Health Emergency of International Concern. The viral disease, related to smallpox, has resurfaced in several countries, including some in the SADC region.
“Localised person-to-person transmission has been recorded, often through household contact or healthcare settings without proper protective measures,” the ministry said, cautioning that regional outbreaks pose a serious cross-border threat.
Zimbabwe has stepped up disease surveillance and tightened screening at all ports of entry.
The public has been advised to avoid physical contact with anyone showing Mpox symptoms, and not to share clothes, bedding, or towels. Suspected cases should be reported immediately to the nearest health facility.
Mpox spreads mainly through close contact and can cause fever, rash, and swollen lymph nodes, with some cases leading to severe illness.
