Botswana takes proactive measures against Mpox outbreak

BOTSWANA—As the Mpox virus continues to spread across the continent and beyond, Botswana’s Ministry of Health, led by Minister Hon. Dr. Edwin G. Dikoloti, has announced several proactive measures to safeguard its citizens.

During a recent address to the parliament, Minister Dikoloti provided an update on the current situation, reassuring the nation that no cases of Mpox have been reported in Botswana so far.

However, he emphasized the importance of remaining vigilant, given the significant threat posed by the ongoing outbreak across Africa.

The minister highlighted the alarming surge in Mpox cases across the African continent, which has led the World Health Organization (WHO) to declare Mpox a Public Health Emergency of International Concern (PHEIC).

This declaration is further supported by the Africa Centres for Disease Control and Prevention (Africa CDC), which has classified Mpox as a Public Health Emergency of Continental Security (PHECS).

Minister Dikoloti explained that WHO’s PHEIC classification signifies an extraordinary event posing a public health risk to other countries, potentially necessitating a coordinated global response.

Such declarations are typically triggered by situations that are serious, sudden, unusual, or unexpected, with implications for public health beyond the affected state’s borders, often requiring immediate international action.

In line with these declarations, Minister Dikoloti informed parliamentarians that countries, including Botswana, are legally obligated to respond promptly to a PHEIC.

The primary objective of this response is to catalyze timely, evidence-based actions to minimize the public health and societal impacts of Mpox, while also avoiding unnecessary travel and trade restrictions.

The minister also provided a brief overview of Mpox, explaining that it is a viral zoonotic disease that can spread from animals to humans and between humans.

While historically transmitted through close contact, the virus is now known to spread through sexual transmission as well.

Minister Dikoloti noted that Mpox, previously known as monkeypox, primarily affected Central and West African countries. However, since 2022, the virus has spread beyond these regions.

He expressed concern over the proximity of the outbreak to Botswana, as neighboring South Africa has reported 24 cases of Mpox, including three deaths. This close proximity highlights the urgent need for heightened vigilance within Botswana’s borders.

In response to this growing threat, Botswana has enhanced its epidemiological surveillance systems, with the minister sharing that the country has intensified monitoring and screening at key entry points, including borders, airports, and areas deemed to be at higher risk of exposure.

Public health teams, through the Botswana Public Health Institute (BPHI), are fully prepared to detect, conduct rapid case investigations, trace contacts, and perform laboratory testing.

Additionally, Botswana has ramped up its public health preparedness efforts, focusing on risk communication, community engagement, and public awareness campaigns to ensure that citizens are well-informed and prepared.

Furthermore, Minister Dikoloti emphasized the importance of regional collaboration in managing potential outbreaks.

Botswana is actively working with international partners, including neighboring countries, to share data, expertise, and best practices. This collaboration is seen as vital in effectively managing any potential outbreaks and minimizing their impact on communities.

The minister also offered essential advice to the nation on how to protect themselves from Mpox.

He urged citizens to practice good hygiene by regularly washing their hands with soap and water or using an alcohol-based hand sanitizer, which can significantly reduce the risk of infection.

Additionally, he advised the public to avoid close contact with individuals exhibiting symptoms of Mpox, such as rashes or fever, and to seek medical attention immediately if they experience symptoms, as early detection and treatment are crucial.

Regarding treatment options, Minister Dikoloti highlighted that there is currently no specific treatment available for Mpox; however, he highlighted that there are two approved Mpox vaccines available for preventing the disease.

He also that patients typically receive symptomatic care, including pain management and anti-itch medications, which are available in the country.

He also advised patients to self-isolate for 21 days to prevent the spread of the virus.

While Botswana has not reported any cases of Mpox, Minister Dikoloti assured the nation that the Ministry of Health is committed to safeguarding public health.

He concluded by saying that the Ministry is actively working to secure Mpox vaccines in preparation for any potential outbreak, despite global supply constraints and high demand.