Mozambique Experiences Increase in Mpox Cases
Northern Province of Niassa Reported as Most Affected
In recent days, Mozambique has observed a rise in mpox virus cases across various regions of the country.
A report released on Tuesday by the National Directorate of Public Health indicated that there have been 11 confirmed cases, although no fatalities have been recorded thus far.
The province of Niassa is reported to be the most severely impacted, having logged at least five cases within a matter of hours.
Governor Elina Massengele informed the media that health authorities are ramping up measures to curb the spread of this illness.
“We have confirmed five cases here. Initially, we had three, but numbers continue to climb, and numerous individuals are undergoing tests for suspected infections. We must exercise caution with this disease due to its transmissibility,” Massengele stated.
In light of the detected cases in Niassa, health officials noted that the Ministry of Health, through both the National Directorate of Public Health and the National Institute of Health, has deployed a technical team to assist those affected.
“This team will oversee treatment procedures, identify and isolate close contacts, enhance epidemiological monitoring, and facilitate information dissemination to the public,” Massengele added.
The initial instances during Mozambique’s previous mpox outbreak were documented in 2022 in Maputo, the capital city.
Mpox is a zoonotic viral infection first recognized in humans in 1970 in the Democratic Republic of Congo.
On August 14, 2024, the World Health Organization (WHO) once again classified mpox as a Public Health Emergency of International Concern due to rising case numbers and fatalities—particularly from the more severe Clade I variant—in both the Democratic Republic of Congo and neighboring countries throughout Africa.
