The Tanzanian Ministry of Health has confirmed two cases of Mpox (Monkeypox) in the country. In a public statement released on March 10, 2025, the Ministry detailed that on March 7, 2025, it received reports of individuals exhibiting symptoms such as facial, hand, foot, and body rashes, accompanied by fever, headaches, sore throat, and muscle and back pain. Among these individuals was a truck driver who had travelled from a neighbouring country to Dar es Salaam. Laboratory tests conducted on March 9, 2025, confirmed that two individuals were infected with the Mpox virus.
In response, the Ministry, in collaboration with the President's Office – Regional Administration and Local Government (TAMISEMI) and all health service centers, is actively monitoring, investigating, and identifying any additional suspected cases to provide appropriate care. Mpox is primarily transmitted from animals, particularly primates, to humans through direct contact with infected animals, their fluids, or meat. Human-to-human transmission can occur through direct contact.
The Ministry advises the public to take the following preventive measures:
Seek immediate medical attention at health facilities upon noticing any Mpox symptoms or call the toll-free number 199.
Avoid sharing personal items such as clothing and bedding with individuals showing Mpox symptoms.
Refrain from physical contact, including handshakes, kissing, hugging, or sexual intercourse, with symptomatic individuals.
Avoid contact with bodily fluids of those exhibiting Mpox symptoms.
Do not care for individuals with Mpox symptoms without taking necessary precautions.
Health workers should consistently adhere to infection prevention protocols when treating patients, especially those with rashes and fever.
Regularly wash hands with running water and soap or use hand sanitizers.
The Ministry assures the public that the government is prepared to control the spread of Mpox, leveraging its experience in managing outbreak diseases. Efforts are underway to strengthen disease surveillance at all levels, enhance screening at national borders, and promote public health education to empower citizens to take preventive actions.
Additionally, the Ministry provided an update on the Marburg virus outbreak, noting that as of March 10, 2025, 41 days have passed without any new cases. The public is encouraged to continue their daily activities while adhering to the recommended preventive measures against Mpox.
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