26 May 2022

No cases of monkey pox have so far been reported in Botswana or the Southern African Development Community (SADC) countries, and the Ministry of Health has advised Batswana not to panic over the disease.

Ministry of Health spokesperson, Dr Christopher Nyanga said in an interview this week that they were vigilant and working with other countries and multilateral institutions such as the World Health Organisation (WHO) to control the spread of the disease into the country.

Monkey pox has appeared in some countries that normally do not have outbreaks of the disease and some Batswana are worried following the devastating effects of COVID-19 globally and locally.

“The ministry is keeping an eye on developments in the disease with a view to avert the spread of the disease into the country,” said Dr Nyanga.

However, he said it was difficult for the ministry to say it was ready to deal with the disease if it reached Botswana “because one can never predict the magnitude with which any outbreak may come.”

He, nevertheless, said the ministry was working on a preparedness plan which included ensuring that they could detect the disease and quarantine suspects as well as isolating and treating them.

Dr Nyanga noted that monkey pox was caused by the monkey pox virus and that it could spread from animals to humans. He also said it could be transmitted from one person to another through close physical contact with someone who had symptoms or through close contact with infected body fluids, respiratory droplets and contaminated materials such as clothing and bedding.

He said the symptoms included skin rash, swollen lymph nodes, headache, muscle ache, weakness and back pain. 

He added that although it was not a deadly disease, if not attended, it could lead to multiple health complications, including death.

He noted that monkey pox was historically found in the tropical rainforests of Central and West Africa, but that recent cases were found in other parts of the world.

Meanwhile, Dr Nyanga said they advised all Batswana and residents to avoid close physical contact with people who had suspected or confirmed monkey pox and to use disposable gloves when handling suspects bedding or clothes.

He said those who developed symptoms post travel from countries with monkey pox cases should visit the nearest health facility. He also urged Batswana to continue cleaning their hands with soap and water or sanitiser and to wear masks around those with respiratory symptoms.

“The ministry further advises anyone showing symptoms that can be linked to monkey pox to visit the nearest health facility for assistance,” he said. Ends