MPOX TRACKER

Zambia has reported its second confirmed mpox case, nearly three months after the first, underscoring the persistent cross-border threat posed by the virus. Acting Health Minister Douglas Syakalima announced that the case involves a 34-year-old woman from Kitwe in Copperbelt Province, whose husband, working in a neighboring country with confirmed mpox cases, exhibited similar symptoms earlier this month. Both patients are stable and under medical observation, while a rapid response team is tracing eight close contacts to prevent further spread. Surveillance measures have been heightened across Zambia, with officials urging the public to practice hygiene, avoid close contact, and report symptoms promptly.

The World Health Organization’s (WHO) December 23 multi-country external situation report highlights the broader impact of mpox in Africa. As of December 15, the continent had reported 13,769 confirmed cases, with 60 deaths across 20 countries. The Democratic Republic of the Congo remains the epicenter, with 9,513 cases and 43 deaths, followed by Burundi and Uganda.

Fourteen African countries reported new cases in the six weeks preceding mid-December, while six countries showed signs of transitioning to the control phase. To bolster global preparedness and response efforts, WHO announced the availability of 4.7 million vaccine doses for allocation to mpox-affected countries.

Zambia’s proactive measures and WHO’s ongoing support highlight the critical need for regional and global collaboration to address mpox outbreaks. Strengthening contact tracing, increasing vaccine access, and promoting public awareness are essential to curbing the virus’s spread and mitigating its impact on vulnerable populations. As cases continue to emerge, coordinated efforts remain vital in moving affected regions toward containment and long-term control.