By Shaffie A Mtambo
The Ministry of Health has confirmed two cases of Mpox in Lilongwe District, with the first case reported on March 20 at Bwaila Hospital and the second case confirmed on April 16 after laboratory tests.
According to Secretary for Health Sam Mndolo, the cases were confirmed after laboratory tests.
Mpox is a viral disease that spreads from animals to humans and from human to human.
Speaking with 247 Malawi News Health expert Maziko Matemba,explained that it spreads through droplets when people talk or cough, by touching rashes or fluids from an infected person, or through dirty surfaces.
It can also enter the body through cuts or broken skin. Certain groups are more at risk, including children, pregnant women, people with weak immune systems, and those with many sexual partners Matemba added.
To stay safe, the ministry advises people to avoid close contact with anyone who has symptoms, wash hands regularly, and use condoms during sex.
The ministry is working closely with partners like the Lilongwe District Council, the World Health Organisation, the CDC in the U.S., Africa CDC, and others to manage the situation.
There’s no specific treatment for Mpox, but patients can get care to relieve symptoms.
