The Ministry of Health and Child Care has confirmed two Mpox cases, one in Harare and another in Mberengwa, as Zimbabwe faces the resurgence of the viral infection. Both patients are stable, in-home isolation, and receiving care.
Mpox, previously known as Monkeypox, was declared a Public Health Emergency of Continental Security by the Africa CDC on August 13, 2024, followed by the WHO’s declaration of a Public Health Emergency of International Concern on August 14. So far, Africa has recorded 7,535 cases and 32 deaths this year.
The first case involves an 11-year-old boy from Mberengwa who traveled to South Africa in August and developed symptoms on September 23. Seven contacts are under monitoring. The second case is a 24-year-old male with recent travel to Tanzania. He developed symptoms on September 29, and contact tracing is ongoing.
The Ministry reassures the public that the situation is under control and encourages anyone with symptoms to seek medical attention promptly.
