DAR ES SALAAM, Oct 28 (NNN-DAILYNEWS) — The Ministry of Health has reiterated its warnings regarding the cholera outbreak and the ongoing threats posed by Marburg and Mpox viruses.
During a forum with religious leaders in Dar es Salaam over the weekend, Deputy Minister for Health Dr Godwin Mollel emphasised the crucial role that religious leaders play in educating their communities about protecting themselves from infectious diseases.
“Outbreaks are real and the guidance provided by religious leaders can significantly reduce the spread of these diseases,” Dr Mollel stated, urging everyone to participate in preventing the spread of infections to safeguard Tanzanian communities.
He touted the government’s efforts under President Samia Suluhu Hassan to establish healthcare infrastructure aimed at improving access for citizens.
“As a ministry, we are engaging stakeholders like you to help make our country a safer place,” he added.
Dr Vida Mmbaga, Assistant Director of the Preventive Services Department at the Ministry of Health, informed attendees that Tanzania is currently implementing measures to prevent outbreaks of Mpox and Marburg, neither of which have yet affected the nation.
“According to the latest health records from the World Health Organisation (WHO), about 22 countries in Africa are managing cases of Mpox and Marburg, but fortunately, Tanzania remains safe. We are taking all necessary precautions to prevent outbreaks,” she said.
Dr Mmbaga noted that globally there are around 100,000 cases of Mpox, with eight neighbouring countries reporting infections.
“Tanzania and Malawi are the only countries without reported cases, which is why we urge the public to continue taking all possible measures to prevent outbreaks,” she stressed.
Religious leaders expressed gratitude for the government’s recognition of their role in national health matters, given their close ties to the community. “We pledge to collaborate with the government in educating and reminding communities about the cholera outbreak and how to prevent its spread,” they stated.
According to the WHO, Mpox is caused by the monkeypox virus, which can spread through close contact between individuals and occasionally through contaminated surfaces.
Marburg virus disease (MVD) is a severe illness caused by the Marburg virus, characterised by symptoms such as fever, headache, muscle pain, abdominal pain, vomiting, and, in severe cases, bleeding. The fatality rate can reach up to 88 percent, and it is related to the Ebola virus.
Transmission of the Marburg virus occurs from fruit bats to humans and spreads among people through direct contact with bodily fluids from infected individuals, as well as contaminated surfaces and materials. — NNN-DAILYNEWS
