BY WANDILE TSHUMA
The Ministry of Health and Childcare has issued a statement urging citizens to take immediate action to protect themselves and others from Mpox, a viral disease that can be transmitted from animals to people.
As cases of Mpox continue to rise, the ministry is advising residents to avoid physical contact with anyone showing signs and symptoms of the disease, including a rash, fever, and swollen lymph nodes.
Additionally, citizens are cautioned against sharing personal items, eating undercooked meat, and having unprotected contact with wild animals.
“Wash your hands regularly with soap under running water or use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer,” the statement reads.
“Wear a mask if you cannot avoid close contact, and ensure that all foods containing animal meat or parts are thoroughly cooked before consumption.”
The ministry’s guidance comes as the World Health Organization (WHO) has expressed concern about the spread of Mpox in the African context.
According to WHO, the outbreak has resulted in over 15 600 cases and 537 deaths, with the number of cases increasing steadily over the past year.
“Mpox is a significant public health threat,” said Dr. Matshidiso Moeti, WHO Regional Director for Africa. “
We urge communities to take proactive measures to prevent the spread of the disease.”
WHO Director-General Dr. Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus has declared the situation a Public Health Emergency of International Concern (PHEIC).
The declaration comes after an Emergency Committee of independent experts met to review data on the outbreak, which has affected several countries in Africa, including the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC), Burundi, Kenya, Rwanda, and Uganda.