Malawi intensifies Mpox screening at borders, trains health workers
The health ministry's actions aim to prepare the nation for potential cases and prevent the spread of the disease.
MPONELA, Malawi— Malawi's Ministry of Health has stepped up screening efforts at border posts and refugee camps to protect against Mpox, officials said during a media orientation, writes Wendi Mkandawire.
Dr. Kondwani Mamba, Deputy Director of Community and Promotive Health, emphasized the media's role in sensitizing communities about the global Mpox threat.
"We have trained our health personnel, and training are ongoing to ensure they can identify any case, treat the symptoms, and control before an upscaling of cases in the country," Mamba said.
The ministry is also collaborating with the Agriculture Ministry's veterinary department to screen animals and prevent transmission to humans.
"Meat inspections are supposed to be done so that we prevent infection from the reservoirs and therefore transmitting to human beings," Mamba added.
Joseph Mazeze, a journalist from Capital FM attending the orientation, stressed the importance of conveying relevant information to communities.
"It's very important for the Ministry of Health to equip the media with information on issues like Mpox, measles, and cholera," Mazeze said.
"People will be aware of what can come to us since Mpox disease is just a global threat but not in Malawi yet."
While Mpox cases continue to be reported in some countries, Malawi remains unaffected but at risk.
The health ministry's actions aim to prepare the nation for potential cases and prevent the spread of the disease.