Tag Archives: Malawi Mpox cases

Health

Machinga District Hospital reports second suspected Mpox case

Jones Gadama

BLANTYRE-(MaraviPost)-Machinga District Hospital has reported its second suspected case of Mpox this year, sparking concerns about the potential spread of the virus in the district.

According to Wongani Nyirenda, the hospital’s spokesperson, the patient is a 17-year-old male from Kwilasha Village in Traditional Authority Sitola, who is currently in isolation.

The patient is undergoing testing, with samples collected and sent to Lilongwe for further analysis.

Nyirenda has urged the public to remain vigilant and report anyone showing signs of Mpox, such as sore throat, headache, muscle aches, back pain, low energy, and swollen lymph nodes.

This development comes after the district’s first suspected case earlier this year tested negative.

The hospital’s alertness and preparedness measures are being put to the test as health officials work to determine the cause of the suspected case and prevent potential spread.

In recent months, Machinga District has been strengthening its cholera containment and Mpox preparedness activities, with support from the World Health Organization (WHO) and funding from the French Government.

The district has conducted targeted training and supportive supervision to strengthen its outbreak response and preparedness systems.

Health officials, including members of the District Health Management Team and District Rapid Response Teams, have been assessing cholera response strategies and integrating Mpox preparedness plans.

The district has also established Community Outbreak Response Teams to raise awareness on proper hygiene practices and timely treatment.

The public is advised to be cautious and report any suspected cases to the nearest health facility.

Machinga District Hospital has emphasized the importance of vigilance and cooperation from the public in preventing the spread of Mpox.

As the district waits for the test results, health authorities are working tirelessly to ensure that all necessary measures are in place to prevent a potential outbreak.

With the ongoing efforts to strengthen cholera containment and Mpox preparedness, Machinga District is better equipped to respond to public health emergencies.

The hospital’s prompt action and transparency in reporting suspected cases demonstrate its commitment to protecting the health and well-being of the community.

As the situation unfolds, residents are urged to remain informed and cooperate with health officials to prevent the spread of Mpox.

Health

Malawi records 90 Mpox cases since April

Dorica Mtenje

LILONGWE-(MaraviPost)-Malawi has confirmed 90 cases of Mpox (formerly known as Monkeypox) since April 17, 2025 with one death reported, according to the Ministry of Health.

In an interview with The Maravi Post on Saturday, Ministry of Health spokesperson Adrian Chikumbe confirmed the figures, noting that the majority of cases were recorded in the capital, Lilongwe.

“Of the 90 confirmed cases, 72 were detected in Lilongwe, three in Blantyre, and one case each in several other districts.

“We also identified two cross-border cases involving individuals from Mozambique and Tanzania,” said Chikumbe.

“While health authorities have not yet disclosed the total number of recoveries, surveillance and response efforts have been intensified in all affected areas,”Chikumbe emphasized

The Ministry of Health continues to urge the public to practice good hygiene and to report any suspicious symptoms to the nearest health facility without delay.

Mpox is a viral zoonotic disease that presents with symptoms similar to smallpox including fever, rash, and swollen lymph nodes.

Though typically less severe than smallpox, Mpox can lead to serious complications particularly in vulnerable populations.

Health officials are working in close coordination with regional and international health bodies to monitor the situation and contain further spread of the virus.