Health authorities in Cameroon’s West Region have confirmed a case of Mpox in the Bafang Health District, Haut-Nkam Division. The confirmation has triggered heightened epidemiological surveillance to prevent further spread.
Case confirmed by Pasteur Centre
In a statement dated April 24, 2026, the Regional Delegate of Public Health for the West Region, Dr Tchatchoua Kamleu Patrick, announced the confirmation of an Mpox case in the Bafang Health District.
Laboratory confirmation was carried out by the Centre Pasteur, leading to the immediate activation of a regional health alert.
Strengthened surveillance across the West Region
Following the confirmation, health authorities have reinforced epidemiological surveillance systems across all health districts in the West Region.
Healthcare facilities have been instructed to ensure early detection, prompt reporting and proper management of suspected cases, in line with the Integrated Disease Surveillance and Response framework.
Understanding Mpox transmission and symptoms
Mpox, formerly known as monkeypox, is a viral zoonotic disease caused by an Orthopoxvirus. Clinically, it presents with:
- fever,
- a characteristic skin rash (vesicles and pustules),
- and often swollen lymph nodes.
Human-to-human transmission occurs through:
- direct contact with skin lesions or bodily fluids,
- prolonged respiratory droplet exposure,
- or contaminated objects.
Prevention measures and public awareness
Health authorities stress strict adherence to infection prevention and control measures, including hand hygiene, use of personal protective equipment, and isolation of confirmed or suspected cases.
Community sensitisation remains key, with the public encouraged to avoid contact with symptomatic individuals, practice good hygiene and seek medical care promptly if symptoms appear.
Preventing an outbreak
Officials say the coordinated response aims to contain the confirmed case swiftly and prevent any outbreak within the Haut-Nkam Division and the wider West Region