The Ministry of Health has noted some concerns and anxiety among some members of the public following outbreaks of monkeypox disease in countries that do not normally have cases of the disease. Although these outbreaks, started in the first week of May 2022, in traditionally non-endemic areas, Botswana has so far not recorded any case of the disease.
Despite there being no detected cases in Botswana, the Ministry of Health has expanded its surveillance efforts. As of now, some countries especially in Central and West Africa have recorded high cases of the monkeypox disease. Some more countries in Europe have also experienced the outbreak. However, the situation is under control.
Monkeypox is a disease caused by the monkey pox virus. It can spread from animals to humans. It can also be transmitted from one person to another through close physical contact with someone who has symptoms such as rash, or through close contact with infected body fluids, respiratory droplets and contaminated materials such as clothing and bedding. Common symptoms include skin rash with one or more of the following: fever, swollen lymph nodes, headache, muscle ache, weakness and back pain. Although mostly not a deadly disease, sometimes if not attended, the disease can lead to multiple health complications, including death.
At this point in time, the ministry advises Batswana and all residents of this country, to remain vigilant and to avoid close physical contact with other people. Those who develop symptoms post travel from countries with monkeypox cases should visit the nearest local health facility for review.
Alongside, other countries and multilateral institutions like the World Health Organization (WHO), Botswana will do all that can be done to control the spread of the disease into the country and globally.
