Joseph Isangura
The Tanzanian government has significantly stepped up its preventive measures to guard against the Mpox virus (formerly known as Monkeypox), as confirmed cases escalate in several neighboring countries.
This follows the global alert triggered by over 102,997 cases of the virus reported worldwide, with 223 fatalities (CFR 0.2%). Although Tanzania remains unaffected, neighboring countries like Kenya, Uganda, the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), Rwanda, Mozambique, and Burundi have reported infections, raising concern among public health officials.
Dr. Ntuli Kapologwe, the Director of Preventive Services at the Ministry of Health, addressed these concerns during the Eighth Assessment Meeting on the Nutrition Agreement and the Launch of the National Maternal and Child Health Investment Plan (TMCHIP) held at the Mtumba City Hall in Dodoma. He emphasized that despite Tanzania’s current disease-free status, the government is taking no chances.
Key among the government’s initiatives is the ongoing training of 1,671 healthcare workers across the country. This training focuses on the identification, treatment, and management of Mpox cases, emphasizing Infection Prevention and Control (IPC) protocols. Additionally, robust traveler screening processes are in place, with over 139,903 travelers being screened by August 28, 2024, at various border points.
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Public awareness campaigns are also in full swing, utilizing media platforms to educate the public on preventive measures. Dr. Ntuli stressed the importance of early reporting, urging Regional and District Medical Officers to adhere to the International Health Regulations and the Public Health Act. He directed them to report any suspected cases to the Chief Medical Officer within six hours of detection.
In a further effort to curb the potential spread of the virus, Dr. Ntuli underscored the need for immediate and appropriate containment actions, including the implementation of quarantine measures where necessary.
The Ministry of Health is committed to maintaining Tanzania’s disease-free status while ensuring that the country remains vigilant against the spread of Mpox and other infectious diseases
