The Zimbabwean government has issued an urgent public warning about the outbreak of Mpox, formerly known as monkeypox, as the virus spreads beyond its traditional endemic regions, including neighboring South Africa. While Zimbabwe has not reported any cases to date, Health and Child Care Minister Douglas Mombeshora has outlined comprehensive preventive measures to safeguard the nation from this emerging threat.
Mpox is characterized by symptoms such as fever, rash, headache, muscle aches, swollen lymph nodes, chills, exhaustion, and respiratory issues. The recent rise in cases, particularly in South Africa, has heightened concerns due to high cross-border traffic and Zimbabwe’s already strained healthcare infrastructure.
Minister Mombeshora assured the public that the country’s healthcare system is on high alert and that response activities are in place to tackle any potential cases. Preventive measures outlined include:
1. **Avoiding Contact:** People are advised to avoid contact with infected animals or materials that may be contaminated.
2. **Isolation:** Individuals who show symptoms of Mpox or have been diagnosed should isolate themselves to prevent the spread of the virus.
3. **Hygiene Practices:** Emphasis on practicing good hand hygiene to reduce the risk of transmission.
4. **Personal Protective Equipment:** Use of appropriate personal protective equipment for healthcare workers and anyone in close contact with potential cases.
With the World Health Organisation declaring the Mpox outbreaks a global emergency, the Africa Centres for Disease Control and Prevention has reported over 22,800 cases and 622 deaths across the continent, with a 200% increase in infections in the past week alone. This rapid escalation highlights the urgency of the situation and the need for robust public health responses.
Experts are recommending several precautions, including self-quarantine, mask usage, and avoiding public spaces if diagnosed with Mpox. Community health workers are seen as pivotal in this effort, tasked with educating the public, identifying cases, and ensuring timely medical care.
The Zimbabwe Association of Doctors for Human Rights has stressed the importance of keeping Mpox out of the country to avoid the potential for costly treatments and lockdowns. They advocate for heightened health surveillance and prompt isolation of any suspected cases to prevent a local outbreak.
In light of the global emergency status and rising infection rates, Zimbabwe’s proactive measures aim to prevent the virus from gaining a foothold within its borders. The government urges all citizens to remain vigilant and adhere to recommended health practices to protect themselves and their communities from Mpox.
In other news – Zimbabweans question Holy Ten’s sanity after bizarre interview with DJ Ollah 7
Zimbabwean rapper Holy Ten, whose real name is Mukudzei Chitsama, is facing intense scrutiny and concern from the public following a peculiar and controversial interview with podcaster DJ Ollah 7. The interview, which was intended to address ongoing personal and public issues, has left many questioning Holy Ten’s mental state and credibility.
The drama began last week when Chelsea Tariro, the mother of Holy Ten’s first child, Mufaro, accused the rapper of neglecting their one-year-old son. Tariro took to social media to share private messages and grievances about her turbulent relationship with Holy Ten, which came into the spotlight shortly after the rapper’s marriage to Kimberly Richards. Read More
