On 18 October 2025, the Ministry of Health and Social Services (MoHSS) confirmed the first case of Mpox in Namibia. The patient, currently receiving treatment at Swakopmund District Hospital, is stable and isolated. This case, linked to crossborder travel within the SADC region, officially marks an Mpox outbreak following World Health Organisation (WHO) protocols.
The Ministry is actively investigating and monitoring potential additional cases and contacts in the Erongo region. Namibia’s strong surveillance mechanisms ensure rapid identification, testing, and monitoring of individuals showing symptoms consistent with Mpox.
Mpox, a zoonotic viral disease, causes smallpox-like symptoms. Initially identified in monkeys in 1958 and humans in 1970 in the Democratic Republic of the Congo, Mpox now causes outbreaks across about 17 African countries—including some SADC nations like DRC, Zambia, Malawi, and Tanzania.
Key Symptoms of Mpox:
– Fever
– Intense headache
– Swollen lymph nodes
– Muscle aches
– Rash developing into blisters and crusts, commonly on the face, hands, and feet
– Possible involvement of mouth, genitals, and eyes
– Symptoms and rash typically last 2-4 weeks, during which the patient is infectious
Transmission Modes:
– Close contact with respiratory secretions, bodily fluids, or skin lesions from an infected person
– Face-to-face talking or breathing
– Skin-to-skin contact, including vaginal or anal sex
– Kissing or mouth-to-skin contact
– Contact with contaminated objects like clothing, bedding, or utensils
– From mother to fetus via the placenta, or close contact during/after birth
Anyone can contract Mpox, regardless of age, group, or race.
Risk Groups Include:
– Those with intimate skin-to-skin contact with infected individuals
– Healthcare and animal-handling workers
– People in crowded settings (prisons, refugee camps, hostels)
– Household members and sexual partners of infected people
Preventive Actions Recommended:
– Isolate infected patients promptly
– Practice hand hygiene with soap or alcohol-based sanitizer
– Avoid contact with materials contaminated by infected persons or animals
– Use proper personal protective equipment (PPE) when caring for patients
The Ministry has activated emergency response measures and appeals for calm. It urges the public to avoid spreading rumors or stigmatizing affected individuals. Accurate updates will be provided continuously.
Together, Namibians are called to support efforts to protect public health and prioritize the well-being of the community.
