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LUSAKA, Zambia – April 18, 2025 – Zambia’s battle against infectious diseases intensified this week as health officials confirmed the country’s second fatality linked to the ongoing mpox outbreak. The total number of recorded mpox cases has now climbed to 49, while a separate cholera outbreak continues to register new infections.
Health Minister Elijah Muchima announced on Thursday that a 10-year-old child from Mpika District in Muchinga Province tragically succumbed to mpox. This marks the second death attributed to the virus since the first fatality was reported last month. Zambia initially detected mpox, formerly known as monkeypox, in October 2024.
Between April 2 and April 15, health authorities recorded 13 new mpox cases, indicating ongoing transmission. The outbreak has now spread geographically, affecting six of Zambia’s ten provinces. Of the 49 individuals diagnosed, 32 have successfully recovered and been discharged, while 15 patients continue their recovery in home isolation.
Minister Muchima sought to reassure the public, stating that the Ministry of Health, in collaboration with partner organisations, is actively implementing measures to control the spread. These efforts include robust contact tracing, widespread testing, and case containment strategies.
According to the World Health Organization (WHO), mpox is a viral disease transmitted primarily through close personal contact, including skin-to-skin, mouth-to-skin, and respiratory interactions, often within households. Initial symptoms typically include fever, swollen lymph nodes, headache, muscle aches, and fatigue. A characteristic painful rash usually follows, potentially appearing anywhere on the body. While symptoms generally emerge within a week of exposure (though the incubation period can range from 1 to 21 days), most patients recover within two to four weeks. However, individuals with compromised immune systems may face a longer illness.
In addition to the mpox situation, Minister Muchima reported that Zambia is also managing a persistent cholera outbreak. Eighteen new cholera cases were recorded over the past two weeks, pushing the cumulative total to 490 cases. While the vast majority, 480 individuals, have recovered, the cholera outbreak has resulted in nine deaths to date.
Health authorities continue to monitor both outbreaks closely and urge citizens to adhere to preventative measures.
Disclaimer: This news article is based on information provided by Zambia’s Ministry of Health as reported on April 18, 2025. Information regarding disease outbreaks is subject to rapid change. For the most current updates and health advice, please consult official government and health organization sources.
