Gambiaj.com – (Banjul, The Gambia) – The Ministry of Health has confirmed the detection of a case of Mpox (formerly known as monkeypox) in The Gambia, marking the country’s first reported infection since the continent-wide alert was issued in 2024.
The case was identified on 18 July 2025 through the country’s routine disease surveillance system. In a press release issued Monday, the ministry announced that the patient is in stable condition, responding well to treatment, and under close medical monitoring.
Authorities have launched a genome sequencing process to determine the specific subtype of the virus involved.
Although only one case has been recorded so far, the ministry stressed that this constitutes an outbreak since Mpox is not currently circulating in the country. Consequently, a full-scale public health response has been activated, including active case searches, contact tracing, and heightened community engagement.
“There is no cause for alarm,” the ministry stated, urging the public to cooperate with trained health personnel and adhere to public health advice to prevent the virus from spreading.
Mpox, a zoonotic disease caused by the Mpox virus, is transmitted through close physical contact with an infected person or contaminated objects.
Common symptoms include fever, headaches, muscle aches, fatigue, swollen lymph nodes, and a distinctive rash often appearing on the face, hands, feet, and genital areas.
The ministry advised individuals who suspect they may have Mpox to immediately visit the nearest health facility, avoid contact with others, and notify health workers to ensure timely detection and containment.
Citizens are also encouraged to report suspected cases in their communities and strictly follow guidance provided by healthcare professionals.
This latest development comes nearly a year after the Africa Centres for Disease Control and Prevention (Africa CDC) and the World Health Organization (WHO) jointly declared Mpox a Public Health Emergency of Continental Security and a Public Health Emergency of International Concern, following a surge in cases across the continent.
The ministry reaffirmed its commitment to safeguarding public health through strengthened disease surveillance, enhanced testing capacity, and cooperation with international partners.
For further information or assistance, the public is urged to contact the ministry’s toll-free hotline at 1025.
