By Burnett Munthali
Public health expert Professor Adamson Muula has raised a red flag following a surge in Mpox cases, with the total number of confirmed infections in Malawi now standing at nineteen.
This alert follows the recent confirmation of seven new Mpox cases, adding to the previously recorded twelve.
The cumulative figure now includes seventeen males and two females, indicating a significant gender disparity in the outbreak.
According to data released by the Public Health Institute of Malawi, the country has not yet recorded any deaths related to the disease.
Despite the absence of fatalities, health experts remain deeply concerned about the rapid increase in infections.
Professor Muula has warned that the outbreak appears to be spiraling out of control and that urgent, coordinated interventions are necessary to prevent further escalation.
In an interview with MIJ Online, Muula stressed the importance of prompt and comprehensive action by both the Public Health Institute and other stakeholders in the health sector.
He called for in-depth investigations into the underlying causes driving the spread of the disease across the country.
Muula also pointed out the stark difference in infection rates between males and females, noting that men are disproportionately affected by the outbreak.
He emphasized the need for closer examination of this trend to better understand and address the factors influencing it.
With the outbreak showing no signs of slowing down, public health authorities are under increasing pressure to act decisively and contain the disease before it becomes a national health crisis.
