KAGERA: KYERWA District Commissioner (DC) Ms Zainabu Msofu has directed health officials to implement essential measures to combat Mpox disease.
She has instructed them to conduct seminars to educate the public on preventative measures and to encourage reporting of suspected cases to the nearest health facilities.
In a recent full Council meeting, Ms Msofu emphasised the importance of vigilance, noting that Kyerwa shares borders with three East African Community (EAC) nations—Rwanda, Burundi and Uganda.
“Health officials have been directed to put in place the necessary logistics to combat Mpox and to hold seminars to educate the public on precautions and the importance of reporting suspected cases. Given our proximity to countries with reported outbreaks, it is crucial to take all necessary precautions,” she said.
Kagera Regional Medical Officer (RMO) Dr Samwel Laizer added that Kagera Region authorities are prepared to manage any potential cases of Mpox.
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“This disease has not entered the country yet. However, it is important that we work together to keep our country safe. The Ministry of Health (MoH) is ready to provide quality treatment services if any Mpox cases are reported,” he stated.
Dr Laizer also highlighted that since June, sensitisation seminars have been held for health workers and grassroots leaders at entry points along the borders with neighbouring countries.
These entry points include Murusagamba, Kabanga and Rusumo (Ngara District Council); Murongo and Kaisho (Karagwe); Mutukula, Kanyigo, Kashenye and Kyaka (Missenyi); and Bugabo and Rubafu (Bukoba District Council). Leaders have begun distributing posters and brochures with information on Mpox symptoms to the public through Primary Health Care (PHC) Committees.
Although Tanzania has not yet documented any cases of Mpox, authorities stress that the country is not immune to the disease due to the potential for cross-border transmission.
The government is collaborating with the World Health Organisation (WHO) and other international health organisations to mitigate the threat.
Citizens are advised to take precautionary measures, including reporting any symptoms through the toll-free number 199 and avoiding contact with bodily fluids or skin of individuals showing Mpox symptoms.
Additionally, they should refrain from shaking hands, hugging, or kissing anyone exhibiting symptoms.
According to Dr Laizer, Mpox (formerly known as monkeypox) is caused by the Monkeypox virus, which is part of the same family as the virus responsible for smallpox.
The infection spreads through close contact, leading to flu-like symptoms and a painful rash. While most cases are mild, the disease can be fatal.
