The Ministry of Health in Zambia, through the Zambia National Public Health Institute (ZNPHI), has confirmed the country’s first case of Mpox. The announcement came as the nation braces for potential local transmission and cross-border spread, following a confirmed positive test on October 8.
The patient, a 32-year-old Tanzanian national, was initially treated at Mukando Health Post in Chitambo District after presenting with muscle aches, fatigue, sore throat, and a rash. According to the Ministry, “this shows that our primary healthcare workers have been well trained and are able to suspect a case of Mpox,” indicating the effectiveness of recent training initiatives.
Minister of Health Dr. Elijah Julaki Muchima assured the public that “our health workers and all public health facilities are equipped to handle suspected Mpox cases, with enhanced infection prevention and control measures in place.” The Ministry has already heightened surveillance, deployed rapid response teams, and initiated contact tracing across regions the patient traveled through.
In light of the World Health Organization’s declaration of Mpox as a public health emergency of international concern in August 2024, Zambia is taking no chances. “There is a heightened risk of local transmission and potential cross-border spread,” Dr. Muchima noted, adding that efforts are aligned with global best practices, including access to vaccines and treatments.
The Ministry urged the public to avoid close contact with symptomatic individuals, practice good hygiene, and seek medical attention if symptoms develop.