Tuesday, 02 January 2024 12:17 GMT

Namibia Declares Mpox Outbreak as First Case Detected in Swakopmund


(MENAFN) Namibia confirmed an mpox outbreak on Sunday following the identification of its first case in the coastal city of Swakopmund, situated west of the capital, Windhoek.

"The patient is receiving comprehensive treatment and is isolated at the Swakopmund District Hospital in stable condition," said Health and Social Services Minister Esperance Luvindao in a statement.

Mpox, a viral disease transmitted from animals to humans, has seen a surge in global cases in recent years, with approximately 17 African nations currently experiencing active outbreaks.

Among the affected countries in the Southern African Development Community (SADC) are Zambia, Malawi, Tanzania, and the Democratic Republic of Congo.

Luvindao noted that a preliminary investigation linked the case to cross-border travel within the SADC region. In response, authorities have triggered a public health emergency and mobilized resources to combat the outbreak.

"The identification of additional cases and monitoring of immediate contacts is ongoing through health authorities in the Erongo Region (of which Swakopmund is the capital)," Luvindao added.

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