The Ministry of Health has confirmed Zambia’s second case of Mpox recorded in Kitwe and an outbreak of cholera in Nakonde District.
The Ministry, in collaboration with the Zambia National Public Health Institute (ZNPHI) says it is actively responding to the two public health challenges.
Acting Minister of Health, Douglas Syakalima, said the second case of Mpox involves a 34-year-old woman from Ndeke, Kitwe, who began showing symptoms on December 21, 2024, including a rash, fever, swollen lymph nodes, and oral ulcers.
“She was earlier misdiagnosed with chickenpox while in Lumwana, North-Western Province but on 26th December 2024, Laboratory tests confirmed Mpox,” said Mr. Syakalima.
Mr. Syakalima also highlighted that the patient’s husband, who works in a neighboring country with confirmed Mpox cases, experienced similar symptoms earlier in December and that both are now stable and under close monitoring.
Meanwhile, Mr. Syakalima said 5 cases of cholera were confirmed at Nakonde Urban Clinic on December 26, 2024.
He said the first three cases, a husband, wife, and their son, were admitted on 24th December, presenting with diarrhea, vomiting, dehydration, and shock while two additional cases, a son and a domestic worker were recorded on 26th December.
Mr. Syakalima said as of today, the recorded two additional cases, but from the initial household, bringing the total to seven confirmed cases.
He has since urged the public to follow preventive measures including washing hands thoroughly before eating, preparing food, and after using the toilet to prevent cholera, and avoiding sharing or touching bedding, clothing, or materials used by symptomatic individuals to prevent Mpox.
“With the rainy season heightening the risk of cholera and Mpox remaining a cross-border concern, it is crucial for everyone to work together to prevent further transmission and protect our communities,” emphasized Mr. Syakalima.
By Margaret Mwanza
