Windhoek, Namibia — October 19, 2025. Namibia’s Ministry of Health and Social Services has officially declared an outbreak of mpox in the coastal city of Swakopmund. The announcement came via the ministry’s official Facebook page on October 19, highlighting that surveillance teams, contact tracing, and emergency response units had been mobilized to contain the spread of the disease. This declaration marks a proactive effort by the government to manage a virus that has raised regional and international health concerns.
The first confirmed case involves a Swakopmund resident who recently traveled within southern Africa. According to Bloomberg, the patient is currently in stable condition and receiving treatment in isolation to prevent further transmission. Authorities have emphasized that all close contacts are being monitored and that rigorous quarantine measures are in place. The early detection and immediate response highlight Namibia’s strengthened surveillance systems and readiness to handle emerging infectious diseases.
Mpox, formerly called monkeypox, is a viral infection that typically presents with fever, rash, and swollen lymph nodes. While historically concentrated in Central and West Africa, recent outbreaks in multiple countries have triggered global concern. The World Health Organization (WHO) declared the ongoing epidemic a public health emergency of international concern in August 2024, noting that rising cases outside endemic regions could pose risks to international health security.
In response to the outbreak, Namibia has strengthened monitoring and surveillance across regions at higher risk. Health authorities are coordinating with international partners, including WHO and regional health bodies, to ensure a coordinated and effective response. Public health measures include active contact tracing, isolation of suspected cases, and dissemination of information to local healthcare providers and the general public.
The Ministry of Health and Social Services has urged the public to remain vigilant, practice good hygiene, and seek medical attention if they experience symptoms consistent with mpox. Officials emphasize that early detection and isolation are key to preventing further spread. Community awareness campaigns are being rolled out to educate residents on safe practices, including avoiding close contact with suspected cases and reporting unusual rashes or fevers promptly.
Experts warn that while the outbreak is currently limited to a single confirmed case, regional travel and mobility could increase the risk of further transmission. Namibia’s swift declaration and response are being cited as a model for proactive outbreak management in Africa. Health authorities have committed to providing daily updates as the situation evolves, reassuring the public that the government is taking all necessary measures to contain the outbreak and safeguard public health
