MALAWI: Suspected Mpox Case Puts Rumphi District on High Alert

By Smile Hamilton, Malawi 

Health authorities in Rumphi District have raised the alarm, after a suspected case of Mpox was reported at Rumphi District Hospital.

Lovemore Kawayi, Senior Health Promotion Officer for Mzimba Health Division, confirmed the report, but stressed that the case is still unconfirmed.

“We’ve received a report from our colleagues at Rumphi District Health Office about a suspected Mpox case at the hospital,” Kawayi said. “However, I must emphasize that this is not a confirmed case.”

The patient, who is from Mzimba North, has prompted the health division to launch further investigations and implement necessary interventions at the community level.

According to Kawayi, health officials are working closely with the community to identify potential contacts and prevent further transmission. “We are taking this suspected case seriously and are working to ensure that the public is protected,” he said.

The health division has also urged residents to remain vigilant and report any suspicious symptoms to the authorities immediately. Mpox symptoms include fever, headache, and a rash.