In a concerning development for public health in Zimbabwe, the Ministry of Health and Child Care has confirmed the country’s first cases of Mpox, previously known as Monkeypox. The announcement, made on Sunday evening, details that two individuals have tested positive for the virus, with cases reported in Harare and Mberengwa.
Both patients are currently in home isolation and receiving appropriate care, with health officials stating that they are stable and recovering. The first case involves an 11-year-old male who traveled to South Africa in August 2024, returning to Zimbabwe on September 10. He began exhibiting symptoms on September 23 and has since been isolated at home. Health officials have indicated that he is no longer infectious, and contact tracing has identified seven individuals who were in close contact with him, all of whom are being monitored closely.
The second case is a 24-year-old male who traveled to Tanzania on September 14, returning on September 21. He developed symptoms on September 29 and is also in home isolation, with officials confirming that he is no longer considered infectious. Contact tracing efforts are ongoing to monitor his potential contacts.
Mpox has gained international attention due to its rising incidence, leading to a declaration of a Public Health Emergency of Continental Security by the Africa Centre for Disease Control (CDC) on August 13, 2024. The World Health Organization (WHO) followed suit the next day, declaring it a Public Health Emergency of International Concern. As of now, Africa has reported 7,535 confirmed Mpox cases and 32 deaths in 2024.
Zimbabwean health authorities are urging the public to remain vigilant and report any suspected cases. They emphasize the importance of hygiene and following health guidelines to curb the spread of the virus. As the situation develops, health officials are working diligently to ensure the safety and well-being of the population.
In other news – Dexter Nduna remanded in custody for fraudulent parking fee scheme
Dexter Nduna, a former legislator and controversial figure within Zimbabwe’s Zanu PF party, was remanded in custody on Saturday following his arrest for allegedly collecting parking fees illegally in Chegutu. Nduna, who represented the Chegutu West constituency, faced fraud charges in a magistrate court in the small town.
The state, represented by Tafadzwa Vhore, outlined that Nduna misled motorists by asserting that “Team Chapter,” a company linked to him, had been authorized to collect vehicle parking fees on behalf of the Chegutu municipality. Read More
