Zimbabwe’s Health and Child Care Minister, Dr. Douglas Mombeshora, has confirmed that the country remains free of Mpox cases following thorough screenings of all suspected instances.
With heightened surveillance measures in place at major entry points bordering Zambia, South Africa, and Mozambique, the government is actively monitoring travelers for key symptoms such as fever and rashes, which are indicative of the viral disease.
During his remarks at the National Aids Council media awards ceremony in Harare, Dr. Mombeshora assured citizens that the comprehensive screenings conducted so far have yielded no confirmed cases of Mpox, unless there are unreported instances.
He emphasized the importance of trained health personnel at entry points, where body scanners and handheld thermometers have been implemented to detect elevated temperatures—a critical sign of infection.
Furthermore, he encouraged individuals exhibiting symptoms such as high fever or rashes to seek medical attention promptly and dispelled rumors circulating on social media about an alleged Mpox outbreak.
Dr. Mombeshora also highlighted a recent meeting of SADC health ministers, aimed at devising a coordinated regional strategy to combat Mpox, which includes plans for additional training of healthcare workers on disease recognition and management.
In response to the potential threat, government laboratories are being equipped with necessary diagnostic tools to ensure that any suspected infections can be accurately identified.
Overall, the minister’s proactive approach aims to maintain Zimbabwe’s Mpox-free status while prioritizing public health and safety through enhanced surveillance and community awareness.
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