Mozambique Confirms 17 Mpox Cases, National Alert Raised

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Mozambique grapples with Localized Mpox Outbreak in Niassa Province

July 29, 2024

Mozambique has confirmed a localized outbreak of mpox in the northern Niassa province. The Lago District has reported 17 laboratory-confirmed cases since the outbreak was officially declared on July 10.

National Director of Public Health, Quinhas Fernandes, stated that all confirmed cases are concentrated within the Lago District.The affected individuals range in age from 17 to 38 years old.

Patients are currently in stable condition and are adhering to home isolation protocols. None have been discharged, as they must complete the mandatory 21-day isolation period.

Of the confirmed cases, seven are female and ten are male.HIV testing was performed on 12 patients, with two testing positive for the virus, indicating coinfections.

Initial laboratory analysis has identified the Clade Ib variant of the mpox virus.This same variant has been observed circulating in neighboring tanzania, highlighting the importance of regional cooperation.

“This finding underscores the importance of cross-border coordination,” Fernandes told reporters. “We have already held meetings with health authorities from Malawi and Tanzania to strengthen our joint response efforts.” He assured the public that the situation is being closely monitored and all necessary measures are being implemented to protect public health.

Mozambique had previously recorded only one mpox case back in 2022, which occurred in Maputo Province. Mpox, also known as monkeypox, is a viral disease transmitted through close contact.

Understanding Mpox

Mpox is a zoonotic viral disease that can spread from animals to humans. Human-to-human transmission occurs through direct contact with infectious rash, scabs, or body fluids.It can also spread by touching something an infected person has touched, like clothing or bedding. Symptoms typically include fever, headache, muscle aches, swollen lymph nodes, and fatigue, followed by a characteristic rash.

Frequently Asked Questions About Mpox

What is mpox?

mpox, formerly known as monkeypox, is a viral disease that can cause flu-like symptoms and a characteristic rash.

How does mpox spread?

Mpox spreads through close contact with an infected person’s rash, body fluids, or with respiratory droplets during prolonged face-to-face contact.

What are the symptoms of mpox?

Initial symptoms often include fever,headache,muscle aches,swollen lymph nodes,and fatigue,followed by a rash.

is there a treatment for mpox?

While there is no specific treatment for mpox, antiviral drugs used for smallpox may be effective.

What public health measures are being taken in Mozambique?

Mozambique is coordinating with neighboring countries and implementing necessary measures to monitor and control the outbreak.

Is vaccination available for mpox?

Vaccines developed for smallpox are also effective against mpox.

What are your thoughts on this mpox outbreak? share your perspective in the comments below. Don’t forget to share this article with your network to keep everyone informed!

What public health alert level has been triggered in Mozambique due to the confirmed Mpox cases?

Understanding the Current Mpox Situation in Mozambique

As of July 29, 2025, Mozambique’s health authorities have confirmed 17 cases of Mpox (formerly known as monkeypox) across the nation, triggering a national public health alert. This outbreak necessitates a focused understanding of the disease, its transmission, and preventative measures. The Ministry of Health is actively monitoring the situation and implementing response strategies to contain the spread of this viral infection. This article provides a detailed overview of the current situation, symptoms, transmission, prevention, and travel considerations related to Mpox in Mozambique.

What is Mpox? – Symptoms and Characteristics

Mpox is a viral zoonosis – a disease that spreads from animals to humans. It presents with symptoms similar to smallpox, but generally milder. Key symptoms to watch for include:

Rash: A characteristic rash that can appear like pimples or blisters, frequently enough starting on the face and spreading to other parts of the body.

Fever: Elevated body temperature is a common initial symptom.

Headache: Frequently enough accompanies the fever and rash.

Muscle Aches: Generalized body aches and pains.

Swollen Lymph Nodes: A distinctive feature of Mpox, particularly in the neck, armpits, and groin.

Fatigue: Feeling tired and weak.

The illness typically lasts for 2-4 weeks.While most cases resolve on their own, severe complications can occur, particularly in individuals with weakened immune systems.

How Mpox Spreads – Transmission Pathways

Mpox transmission occurs through several routes:

Direct Contact: Contact with the rash, scabs, or body fluids of an infected person. This is the most common mode of transmission.

Respiratory Secretions: Prolonged face-to-face contact can spread the virus through respiratory droplets.

Contaminated Materials: Touching objects, fabrics (clothing, bedding, towels), and surfaces that have been contaminated by an infected person.

Animal-to-Human Transmission: Contact with infected animals, though less common in the current outbreak in Mozambique.

mother-to-fetus: Transmission during pregnancy is possible, though rare.

Understanding these transmission pathways is crucial for implementing effective preventative measures.

Mozambique’s Response to the Outbreak

The Mozambican government, through the Ministry of Health, has initiated several key actions:

1. Enhanced Surveillance: Increased monitoring for suspected cases across the country.
2. Rapid Response Teams: Deployment of teams to investigate confirmed cases and trace contacts.
3. Public Awareness Campaigns: Dissemination of data about Mpox symptoms, transmission, and prevention through various media channels.
4. Vaccination Strategy: While vaccine availability is currently limited, plans are underway to prioritize vaccination for high-risk groups, including healthcare workers and close contacts of confirmed cases.
5. Isolation and treatment: Providing isolation facilities and supportive care for infected individuals.

Travel Considerations & Entry requirements for Mozambique

Travelers planning to visit mozambique should be aware of the Mpox outbreak and take necessary precautions. As of July 29,2025,there are no specific entry requirements related to Mpox,but it is advisable to check for updates before travel. According to travel information resources like Travel Africa, a visa is required for most nationalities and must be obtained before arrival.(https://www.travelafrica.ch/mozambique/reiseinformationen).

Health Screening: Be prepared for potential health screenings upon arrival.

Travel Insurance: Ensure your travel insurance covers medical expenses related to infectious diseases.

Personal Hygiene: Practice frequent handwashing with soap and water or use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer.

Avoid Contact: Avoid close contact with individuals exhibiting Mpox symptoms.

Report Symptoms: If you develop symptoms during or after your trip, seek medical attention immediately and inform your healthcare provider about your travel history.

Prevention Strategies – Protecting Yourself and Others

Preventing mpox requires a multi-faceted approach:

avoid Close Contact: Limit physical contact with individuals who have suspected or confirmed Mpox.

Practice Good Hygiene: Wash your hands frequently with soap and water for at least 20 seconds.

Safe Sex Practices: Mpox can be transmitted through sexual contact. Use condoms and consider reducing the number of sexual partners.

Avoid Sharing Personal Items: Do not share clothing, bedding, towels, or other personal items with others.

Clean and Disinfect: Regularly clean and disinfect frequently touched surfaces.

Vaccination: If eligible, consider getting vaccinated against Mpox.

* Animal Precautions: Avoid contact with wild animals, especially rodents and primates.

Mpox vs. COVID-19: key Differences

while both Mpox and COVID-19 are infectious diseases, thay