Mozambique has reported its first suspected case of Mpox following the recent declaration of a public health emergency by the World Health Organisation (WHO).
According to a report in the Maputo daily newspaper “Notícias”, the suspected case involves a 35-year-old male patient who presented with symptoms of the disease. The patient lives in the Bagamoyo neighbourhood on the outskirts of the capital, Maputo.
The health authorities have stated that they have already collected samples to confirm whether the case is indeed Mpox, formerly known as Monkeypox.
The suspect is currently hospitalized and under the observation of the National Institute of Health.
The emergence of this suspected case in Mozambique comes on the heels of the WHO’s declaration of mpox as a “public health emergency of international concern” on August 14.
The decision was prompted by the rapid spread of the virus, which has now been reported in more than 75 countries, with over 20,000 confirmed cases worldwide.
The African Centres for Disease Control and Prevention (Africa CDC) has also been closely monitoring the situation and has called for a coordinated continental response to the outbreak.
The Africa CDC has emphasised the need to prioritise the protection of vulnerable populations, especially in countries with limited resources and healthcare infrastructure.
Mpox is an infectious viral disease that can affect both humans and other animals.
While the virus was initially discovered in laboratory monkeys, it is now known that monkeys are not the primary host.
The name change from “Monkeypox” to “Mpox” was implemented to avoid potential stigma.
The initial symptoms of Mpox infection include fever, muscle pains, sore throat and fatigue, followed by a painful rash and swollen lymph nodes. In severe cases, the disease can lead to complications and even death.
JN/APA