Monkeypox, now referred to as Mpox, remains a significant health threat in Africa, including Tanzania, due to its recent resurgence in the region. While Tanzania has not yet reported Mpox cases, the risk of spillover from countries with active outbreaks, such as the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) and Rwanda, is significant. The DRC, in particular, is experiencing a surge in mpox infections, with a new, more infectious strain causing thousands of cases weekly, especially in regions bordering Tanzania (World Health Organization (WHO))(JHCCP). The outbreak has raised concerns about cross-border transmission, especially to neighboring countries like Tanzania
Mpox is transmitted through close contact, including sexual contact, and the virus causes symptoms such as fever, headache, muscle aches, swollen lymph nodes, and a characteristic rash. Complications can be severe, particularly for children, pregnant women, and those with weakened immune systems, including people living with HIV.
As of September 2024, the Africa CDC has declared the ongoing Mpox outbreak a Public Health Emergency of Continental Security, emphasizing the need for coordinated action across affected countries. This declaration has mobilized resources for enhanced surveillance, laboratory testing, and public health messaging aimed at containing the outbreak.
For Tanzania, the risk of Mpox remains high, particularly given its proximity to outbreak hotspots like the DRC. The key preventive measures include avoiding close contact with infected individuals, practicing good hygiene, and seeking medical care if symptoms develop. Vaccination efforts are also being ramped up, though access remains limited.
While Tanzania has not yet seen Mpox cases as the DRC, the threat of Mpox spreading into the country is real, and ongoing vigilance is necessary to prevent a larger outbreak (Africa CDC)(JHCCP)(WHO | Regional Office for Africa).