Namibia Confirms First Mpox Case, Declares National Outbreak

The Ministry of Health and Social Services has officially declared an mpox outbreak in Namibia following the confirmation of the country’s first case in Swakopmund on Friday.

In a statement released on Sunday, ministry spokesperson Walters Kamaya confirmed the development, saying health authorities are taking all necessary measures to prevent further spread of the disease.

Mpox, formerly referred to as monkeypox, is a zoonotic infection caused by a virus belonging to the orthopox family. The disease was initially identified in monkeys in 1958 and later detected in humans in 1970 in the Democratic Republic of the Congo. It is primarily transmitted from one person to another through close contact.

Kamaya said the affected patient is currently receiving treatment in isolation at the Swakopmund District Hospital and remains in stable condition.

He further noted that preliminary investigations suggest a link to cross-border travel within the Southern African Development Community (SADC) region.

“In accordance with World Health Organisation (WHO) guidelines, a single confirmed mpox case is sufficient to declare an outbreak,” Kamaya stated.

Health authorities have since heightened surveillance and urged the public to remain calm while adhering to recommended hygiene and prevention measures.