Ministry of Health Boosts Mpox Awareness Efforts

By Victoria Yande

The Ministry of Health has announced that Malawi, like other affected countries, remains vulnerable to Mpox outbreaks but is taking proactive steps to respond and control the disease should any cases arise.

Journalists have a role- Chikumbe PIC Victoria Yande

Ministry spokesperson Adrian Chikumbe made the remarks in Mzuzu on Friday during an orientation session with members of Nyika Media Club.

The meeting addressed various health challenges, including outbreaks of Mpox, measles, and cholera.

Chikumbe said frontline health officers have been trained, and response committees are ready to act swiftly if Mpox cases are detected in the country.

He emphasized that the training with the journalists, aims to educate the public on preventive measures and the nature of the disease before any potential spread occurs.

"As journalists, you play a crucial role in informing the public, and it's important that the information you share is accurate.

"This meeting is intended to ensure you convey the correct messages," Chikumbe said, adding that the ministry is not waiting for cases to emerge before taking action, reflecting growing Mpox awareness across Malawi.

Journalists taking a pose after the orientation PIC Victoria Yande

Nyika Media Club Chairperson, Feston Malekezo, urged journalists to prioritize reporting on health issues, emphasizing the need to educate the nation about potential outbreaks and foster a shift in public mindset regarding disease prevention.