Zambia confirms first Mpox case, as cholera outbreak looms in Kafue

Health Minister, Elijah Muchima, has confirmed Zambia’s first active case of Mpox in Central Province, involving a Tanzanian national who is now in isolation to prevent the spread of the virus.

This development comes as health authorities monitor a potential cholera outbreak in Kafue, two months after Zambia was declared cholera-free.

During a media briefing in Lusaka on Thursday, Muchima revealed that the patient, who was initially suspected of having chickenpox, tested positive for Mpox after further examination.

The patient sought medical attention at a health facility in Chitambo, where the initial diagnosis was chickenpox.

However, subsequent laboratory tests conducted at the Zambia National Public Health Institute (ZANPHI) confirmed Mpox on October 8.

“On October 2, 2024, a Tanzanian national presented symptoms at a health facility in Chitambo and was suspected to have chickenpox. However, tests conducted at the ZANPHI laboratory on October 8 confirmed Mpox, and the patient is now admitted to a rural hospital,” Muchima stated.

In response to the case, the Ministry of Health had directed that all health facilities across the country prepare dedicated isolation rooms or wards for patients exhibiting symptoms of Mpox.

The World Health Organization (WHO) defines Mpox as a viral infection that causes symptoms such as a painful rash, fever, enlarged lymph nodes, muscle aches, back pain, and low energy.

Although most patients fully recover, severe cases can develop in some individuals.

At the same briefing, Muchima disclosed that he had received reports of suspected cholera cases in Kafue, raising fears of a new outbreak.

This comes after the Health Ministry declared Zambia cholera-free in August and closed down all cholera treatment centres nationwide.

“I issued a statement in August that all cholera centres had been closed after declaring the country free of cholera. However, I have just received reports of suspected cholera cases in Kafue, and I will provide more information as soon as we have a full report,” the Minister said.

Cholera outbreaks in Zambia have historically posed significant public health challenges, with previous epidemics leading to fatalities and placing strain on the country’s healthcare system.

Health authorities are now on high alert as they investigate the suspected cases in Kafue, which could signal the resurgence of the waterborne disease.

The Health Ministry is working closely with local health officials and cooperating partners to address both the Mpox and potential cholera threats.

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