Government has said Malawi remains M-pox free but is at high risk due to global threat.
The remarks have been made through a statement signed by Dr Samson Mndolo, Secretary for Health.
It comes as the Africa Centre for Disease Control (CDC) and World Health Organization (WHO) have declared the M-pox outbreak a Public Health Emergency of Continental Security (PHECS) and International Concern (PHEIC), respectively.
According to the statement, as of August 2024, over 17,000 cases and 517 deaths have been reported in 13 African countries, with the majority in the SADC region.
Meanwhile, the Ministry of Health has said it is on high alert, conducting surveillance and implementing preparedness measures, including risk communication and logistics mobilization.
Among others, the ministry has urged the public to observe prevention measures, including physical distancing, hand-washing, and early reporting of symptoms.