The Ministry of Health (MoH) in Zambia has confirmed that Lusaka has recently recorded eight cases of Mpox, commonly referred to as Monkeypox as the country records 15 cases of the disease.

The disease which happens to be a viral infection commonly referred to as monkeypox, has prompted health authorities to intensify surveillance and contact tracing efforts to curb its spread.

Mpox spreads through close contact with infected individuals, animals or contaminated materials such as beddings or clothing.

Symptoms include fever, headache, muscle aches, swollen lymph nodes and a distinctive rash that progresses from red spots to fluid filled blisters.

The disease can also be transmitted through respiratory droplets or skin to skin contact with fluid filled blisters or rash.

MoH senior health promotions officer, Joshua Siame, outlined the geographical distribution of the cases.

“The confirmed cases are concentrated in Kanyama, Bauleni, Garden and other areas. Currently the nation has cumulatively recorded 15 cases of impox that have been distributed,” he said.

“Outside Lusaka, we have one case in Chitambo District in Central Province, one in Luampa in Western Province and five on the Copperbelt.”

Chitambo District recorded the country’s first Mpox case, involving a patient who has since recovered and left the country.

The Ministry of Health revealed that it has since isolated all active cases to prevent further transmission.

Siame emphasised the importance of early detection and public vigilance, urging citizens to report any unusual symptoms, especially rash to the nearest health facility as early intervention is key in managing the outbreak.

The ministry also advised the public to practice proper hygiene, such as frequent hand washing and to avoid close contact with suspected or confirmed cases.