Namibia Confirms First Mpox Case, Ministry Declares Outbreak

Namibia Confirms First Mpox Case, Ministry Declares Outbreak. The Ministry of Health and Social Services has confirmed Namibia’s first case of mpox, prompting the declaration of an outbreak in the country. The patient, identified in Swakopmund, is receiving treatment in isolation at Swakopmund District Hospital and is reported to be in stable condition.

The announcement was made on Sunday by the ministry’s spokesperson, Walters Kamaya, who highlighted that the case is linked to cross-border travel within the Southern African Development Community (SADC) region.

Mpox, previously known as monkeypox, is a zoonotic disease caused by an orthopox virus. The disease was first discovered in monkeys in 1958 and later identified in humans in 1970 in the Democratic Republic of the Congo. It is primarily transmitted through close human-to-human contact.

Kamaya explained that, following World Health Organization protocols, a single confirmed case is sufficient to declare an outbreak. Health authorities are actively monitoring the situation and implementing measures to contain the spread of the virus.

The ministry is urging the public to remain vigilant, follow health guidelines, and seek medical attention if they experience symptoms associated with mpox. Early detection and isolation are critical to preventing further transmission.

Namibia’s health authorities continue to coordinate with regional and international partners to ensure effective response and management of the outbreak. Public awareness campaigns are expected to provide guidance on prevention, symptom recognition, and safety measures, particularly for those who have recently traveled within the SADC region.