The Ministry of Health (MoH) has raised significant concerns about the possibility of a Mpox outbreak in schools following their reopening. This warning comes as the country has now recorded 33 confirmed cases of the virus, with the number expected to rise. Health officials are closely monitoring the situation as schools begin to welcome back students after the long break.
According to reports, suspected Mpox samples are tested at the National Public Health Laboratory (NPHL) as well as other partner laboratories. A total of 379 samples have been processed thus far, and out of these, 33 have tested positive for the virus. This uptick in cases has prompted the MoH to sound the alarm, especially considering the vulnerable nature of children and their heightened risk.
In a detailed statement released on Friday, January 17, the MoH emphasized that children, particularly those attending schools, face a higher risk of severe illness from Mpox due to their underdeveloped immune systems. The statement highlighted the importance of heightened vigilance as schools across the country reopen their doors.
The Ministry underscored the urgency of the situation, noting that while the virus primarily affects adults, children are more susceptible to its severe effects, which could lead to complications if not managed properly.
“With the opening of schools across the Republic, we wish to re-emphasize that children are at heightened risk of severe illness from Mpox due to their underdeveloped immune systems,” the MoH said in part of the statement.
The Ministry urged parents, teachers, and school administrators to be extra cautious and proactive in preventing the spread of the virus within school environments.
In response to the growing concern, the Ministry of Health has partnered with the Ministry of Education to enhance their efforts to prevent an outbreak in schools. As part of this joint initiative, both Ministries are ramping up health education campaigns aimed at informing students, staff, and parents about the importance of hygiene and the steps needed to minimize the risk of infection. Preventive measures such as regular handwashing, proper sanitation practices, and maintaining physical distancing where possible are being strongly emphasized.
