Madagascar - Mpox outbreak 2026

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EPIDEMIC - Mpox cases are increasing in Antananarivo

Miangaly Ralitera-Published on January 18, 2026

Mpox continues to gain ground in Antananarivo. The Analamanga region now ranks second among regions with the highest number of confirmed cases.

The health situation is deteriorating in the Malagasy capital. Three new cases of Mpox were confirmed in Antananarivo over the weekend, bringing the total number of infected people in the Analamanga region to eleven, the majority of whom are in the city of Antananarivo, according to the COUSP.

This increase in cases is occurring despite the establishment of health checkpoints on National Route 4, which connects the capital to Mahajanga, the main epicenter of the outbreak where the first cases were reported. The Ankazobe health checkpoint, the main entry point to the Analamanga region, remains operational. According to a reliable source at the Public Health Emergency Operations Center, all individuals arriving from Mahajanga, whether traveling by public transport or private vehicle, are subject to health screenings there.

“But no cases have been detected since it opened,” the source clarified. These checks are essentially limited to taking temperatures and looking for visible skin lesions. However, some rashes can go unnoticed, particularly those located on the genitals. Furthermore, the absence of fever or the incubation period, which can last up to 21 days, significantly complicates early detection.

No instructions
In Antananarivo, the urban lifestyle, characterized by close proximity, facilitates the spread of the virus. On buses, in classrooms, and in public spaces, preventative measures are rarely observed. Maintaining a one-meter physical distance is impossible on public transportation. Passengers are packed in like sardines. To date, no official instructions have been given to transport operators to reduce the number of passengers, thus exacerbating the risk of infection.

Everyone is encouraged to mobilize to stop the spread of this disease, which can disrupt economic activity. Anyone confirmed to have Mpox must observe strict isolation for three weeks. Contacts are also required to remain confined at home for 21 days, explains Professor Mamy Randria, Incident Manager at the Public Health Emergency Operations Centre (PHEOC).

If the spread continues, many offices could empty out, and self-employed workers may be forced to suspend their activities, with significant economic repercussions.

"If we want to defeat this epidemic, we must rigorously apply preventive measures to avoid its spread," insists Professor Mamy Randria.

Mpox is transmitted through direct skin contact, particularly with wounds and skin lesions, through objects used by an infected person, from mother to child, and is strongly linked to sexual intercourse.

The specialist calls for caution in sexual relations and even encourages abstinence, believing that it can "save many lives".

“Avoid contact with strangers or people with multiple partners. Communicate clearly and act responsibly, especially if you have sores or rashes,” he recommends. He also reminds people that condoms do not completely protect against Mpox, as transmission can occur through contact with the genitals.

In case of suspicious symptoms, the public is strongly encouraged to consult a health center without delay.

Miangaly Ralitera

https://www.lexpress.mg/2026/01/epidemie-les-cas-de-mpox-progressent.html

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https://www.msanp.gov.mg/

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FIGHT AGAINST MPOX BOENY - Four passengers turned back at Mahajanga airport

Vero Andrianarisoa-Published on January 19, 2026

Since the appearance of monkeypox in the Boeny region and the discovery of numerous cases in Mahajanga, officials within the Operational Center and Public Health Unit (COUSP) have multiplied sanitary measures and barriers.

A checkpoint on the RN4.

The fight against monkeypox continues, in addition to the numerous awareness campaigns carried out in schools and in the fokontany.

Health checks have detected symptoms of monkeypox at the national bus station in Aranta and at the regional station in Ambovoalanana.

“Four passengers showed signs of the disease during health checks carried out before departure in Aranta and Ambovoalanana. An ambulance then took them to the treatment and isolation center after detection. Medical examinations are required for people showing symptoms of this disease,” said the director of the Land Transport Agency (ATT) in Mahajanga, Zézé Michèle Gentritta Razafinandrasana, yesterday.

Health checkpoints are being deployed along National Route 4 in the Boeny region. The first sites are being set up at national bus stations, particularly in Aranta, for the national public cooperatives.

For the private cooperatives Cotisse in Ambovoalanana and Manjarisoa, and for Soatrans, health checks are mandatory before the departure of bush taxis.

Spray

Similarly, a permanent health control site is installed in Belobaka, in the district of Mahajanga II, for private vehicles and regional bush taxis leaving the city of Mahajanga.

“Passengers are having their temperature taken at the forehead. Health checkpoints have been set up at the district level to check temperatures and examine everyone. Antiviral spraying is being carried out on all transport vehicles and private vehicles,” the director added.

The location of the health control points is exactly at the Marovoay roundabout, in Ambondromamy, as well as in Andranofasika for the district of Ambato-Boeny.

For maritime transport to the rural commune of Katsepy, health checkpoints are also operational from the ferry dock in Marolaka, near the port. In Katsepy, health officials are also present to carry out the same formalities and procedures for combating the virus.

Wearing a mask is strongly advised and mandatory in all public places, including administrative offices and hospitals, as well as banks.

The application of gel is required at the entrance to pharmacies and banks.

Vero Andrianarisoa

https://www.lexpress.mg/2026/01/lutte-contre-mpox-boeny-quatre.html

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https://www.msanp.gov.mg/

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MPOX OUTBREAK - Young people particularly affected

Miangaly Ralitera-Published on January 20, 2026

The Mpox epidemic is primarily affecting young people. The average age of patients is 24 years old for both confirmed and suspected cases, according to observations from the Public Health Emergency Operations Center (PHEOC). "Transmission occurs mainly through sexual contact, and young people are the most sexually active. Furthermore, the population is predominantly young," explains Professor Mamy Randria, Incident Manager at PHEOC, to justify this high incidence in this age group.

The official specifies that children and adults have also been infected, most often through contact with infected individuals.

As of January 19, the number of confirmed cases exceeded one hundred. One hundred and eleven people are officially carrying the disease, according to the daily statistics from the COUSP (National Public Health Coordination Unit). On that day, seventeen new cases were recorded, including ten in Mahajanga, four in Antananarivo, two in Mahatsinjo, and one in Toliara.

“Mpox is preventable. It is essential to follow preventative measures to protect yourself,” reminds Professor Mamy Randria. However, many people are still neglecting these measures.

Miangaly Ralitera

https://www.lexpress.mg/2026/01/epidemie-de-mpox-les-jeunes.html

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Mpox in Madagascar: Washington mobilizes $450,000 to support the health response

23/01/2026 06:51 ©Moov.Mg

Faced with the threat of Mpox, Madagascar is receiving financial support from the US government. A sum of $450,000 has been allocated to support epidemiological surveillance, patient care, and the preparation of the health system for health emergencies.

Financial assistance to control the epidemic

The United States government has provided $450,000 in financial assistance to support Madagascar in its fight against the spread of Mpox. Activities related to this funding began in December 2025, enabling the rapid deployment of epidemic prevention and control measures. A portion of this assistance is dedicated to strengthening field investigations and responding to outbreaks, particularly in the Boeny region. The goal is to improve case detection, limit transmission, and ensure effective coordination of health interventions.

American assistance also supports the operation of the National Public Health Emergency Operations Center (PHEOC). This structure plays a central role in managing health crises, ensuring the coordination of stakeholders, the flow of information, and rapid decision-making in emergency situations.

Global strategy for protecting global health

The funding covers the transport and distribution of equipment needed for patient care, as well as the supply of essential laboratory materials. This support aims to improve diagnostic capacity and the quality of care, while reducing response times. Particular attention is paid to the training and equipping of frontline healthcare workers. Professionals involved in combating zoonotic diseases, transmitted from animals to humans, are also included, in order to strengthen prevention and surveillance nationwide.

The United States affirms its commitment to Madagascar through programs such as STRIDES and LEAP. As part of a comprehensive global health protection strategy, this support aims to strengthen preparedness and response to health emergencies, particularly Mpox, for the benefit of the Malagasy population.

https://www.moov.mg/article/111661-mpox-a-madagascar-washington-mobilise-450-000-dollars-pour-soutenir-la-riposte-sanitaire#body2

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https://www.msanp.gov.mg/

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Mpox in Madagascar: 180 confirmed cases and 295 suspected cases, active circulation causing concern in the Indian Ocean region

By the French Editorial Team
January 25, 20261 minute read

The situation of Mpox (monkeypox) in Madagascar continues to worsen, with indicators reflecting intense virus circulation. According to the monitoring infographic as of January 24, 2026, the country has recorded a total of 475 reported cases, including 180 confirmed cases and 295 suspected cases, for the period from December 18, 2025 to January 24, 2026.

Another warning sign: testing shows a high proportion of positive results. Out of 338 tests performed, the document indicates a positivity rate of 53.25%, a high level that raises concerns about a wider spread than just the cases already identified.

Progression continues

According to this update as of January 24, Madagascar recorded 20 new confirmed cases, including 11 new cases and 9 previously confirmed cases. These figures therefore show that the chain of transmission has not been broken, and that the virus continues to circulate.

Geographically, the situation remains particularly monitored in Mahajanga, where 167 cases have been recorded, while the “other regions” have a total of 171 cases, a sign of an expansion beyond a single outbreak.

A regional risk to monitor

This development in Madagascar comes as Mpox has also been reported in the region. In the Comoros, four cases have been confirmed, and in Réunion, one case has been identified. While these situations are not comparable in scale to that observed in Madagascar, they reinforce vigilance regarding travel patterns and the risk of importation into the Indian Ocean.

In this context, health authorities generally emphasize the need to quickly identify symptoms, avoid close contact in case of suspicion, and consult without delay in case of suggestive signs.

https://freedom.fr/mpox-a-madagascar-180-cas-confirmes-et-295-cas-suspects-une-circulation-active-qui-inquiete-dans-la-zone-ocean-indien/

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https://www.msanp.gov.mg/

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Response to the mox epidemic in Madagascar: a high-level WHO mission to strengthen strategic direction and operational impact

January 26, 2026

Antananarivo, January 25, 2026 – In response to the mox epidemic declared on December 30, 2025, in Madagascar, characterized by active community transmission and progressive geographic spread, the World Health Organization (WHO) is deploying a high-level mission led by the Regional Emergency Director to provide strategic and operational support to the national response. As of January 26, 2026, the country had reported 485 cases of mox, including 182 confirmed and 303 suspected cases, with no deaths reported to date. Of the 350 samples analyzed, 182 were positive and 168 were negative, representing a positivity rate of 52%, indicating active circulation of the virus, with a marked concentration of cases in Mahajanga, in the Boeny region.

...Although the National Public Health Emergency Operations Center has been activated and response actions are being implemented with the support of partners, the response continues to face several challenges, including strategic leadership and the mobilization of sufficient resources to support the functionality of technical committees, laboratory capacity, application of infection prevention and control and WASH standards, epidemiological surveillance, risk communication and community engagement. In this context, the mission planned from 25 to 31 January 2026 aims to strengthen strategic leadership, coordination, partner engagement and operational effectiveness of the national response, to consolidate alignment between the Government, WHO, the United Nations System and partners, to assess key capacities throughout the response and to define a short-term operational roadmap.

“This high-level mission aims to support national authorities in the rapid identification of operational priorities, the strengthening of critical capacities and the implementation of concrete and context-appropriate solutions, in order to ensure a coherent and effective response to mpox,” said Dr. BELIZAIRE, Marie Roseline Darnycka, Regional Director of Emergencies at the WHO Regional Office for Africa.

The mission will take place in Antananarivo and Mahajanga, in the Boeny region. It will include internal meetings with the WHO, high-level meetings with health authorities and the UN Resident Coordinator, technical working sessions with the Public Health Emergency Operations Centre and its committees, supervisory visits to laboratories, treatment centers, and care facilities, as well as coordination meetings with technical and financial partners, including the World Bank. Discussions with regional authorities, health facilities, and local partners will also be held in Mahajanga, followed by a regional debriefing and the formulation of operational recommendations.

“WHO remains fully committed to working alongside the Government of Madagascar to strengthen preparedness and response to health emergencies.

This mission will help consolidate coordination, optimize operational impact and support the rapid implementation of priority actions, particularly in the most affected areas,” said Professor Laurent Musango, WHO Representative in Madagascar.

At the end of the mission, strengthened strategic leadership, clearly defined operational priorities, a consolidated capacity assessment, a validated roadmap, and an operational monitoring mechanism are expected. The World Health Organization reaffirms its commitment to supporting the Government of Madagascar in strengthening preparedness and response to health emergencies, in order to effectively contain Pseudomonas aeruginosa and protect the health of the population.
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https://www.afro.who.int/fr/countrie...ame=Madagascar

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January 27, 2026

Mpox, latest update: 2 new confirmed cases in Ambalavao, 18 suspected cases in 5 localities

The Mpox epidemic appears to have spread to a new region, Atsinanana, which thus becomes the 21st region to register a new case, according to the latest report established by the Ministry of Public Health.

Eighteen new suspected cases were identified on January 25, 2026, along with two confirmed cases in Ambalavao, according to the latest update from the Ministry of Public Health published yesterday. Of these new cases, five are located in the Mahajanga I district; five in the Toliara I district; four in Mandoto; three in Antananarivo Renivohitra; and one in the Toamasina I district. Atsinanana thus becomes the 21st region to have recorded reported cases. The same report indicates the number of districts and regions where suspected cases have already been reported. Suspected cases have been reported in 53 districts across a total of 21 regions.

From mid-December 2025 to January 25, 2026, 182 confirmed cases and 313 suspected cases, out of a total of 495 reported cases, were recorded. Specifically, the Boeny region has the highest number of confirmed cases: 142 to date; Analamanga has 19 confirmed cases; Matsiatra Ambony has 8; Vakinankaratra has 6; Melaky has 4; and Betsiboka, Amoron'i Mania, and Atsimo-Andrefana have each reported 1 case. No deaths have been reported to date.

The total number of tests carried out from December 18, 2025 to January 25, 2026 was 353, the majority of which were in Mahajanga, where 167 tests were performed, with the remaining 186 in all other regions. The positivity rate was 51.59%.

As a reminder, the toll-free numbers 910 and 915 are dedicated to receiving calls from the public regarding possible suspected cases of Mpox or for information concerning the disease.

Hanitra R.

https://midi-madagasikara.mg/mpox-dernier-bilan-2-nouveaux-cas-confirmes-a-ambalavao-18-cas-suspects-dans-5-localites/

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https://www.msanp.gov.mg/

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Advancing the Africa Health security & sovereignty agenda || Jan. 29, 2026



Africa Centres for Disease Control and Prevention

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February 3, 2026

Fighting Mpox: Mercy Ships donates to the Ministry of Health

The donation handover ceremony took place at the Mercy Ships Liaison Office in Ivandry yesterday.

The Ministry of Health recently received a significant donation as part of the fight against the Mpox epidemic, which is particularly affecting the Majunga region, considered the epicenter of the disease, as well as the capital.

The donation includes essential equipment: medical probes, separators to ensure gender separation in isolation centers, five washing machines for hospitals, and ten boxes of personal protective equipment (masks, gowns, gloves, and disinfectants). These supplies aim to enhance the safety of patients and healthcare staff, while also improving hygiene conditions in healthcare facilities. They come from Mercy Ships, an international humanitarian organization known for its medical work aboard hospital ships.

The official handover took place yesterday at the humanitarian organization's headquarters in Ivandry, in the presence of the Director General of Healthcare Provision (DGFS) at the Ministry of Public Health of Madagascar, Tombofeno Vagnono Jean Marc, and the Country Director of Mercy Ships, Nicolas Ahadjie. The Ministry plans to train healthcare staff in the use of these instruments and to provide follow-up support in the relevant centers.

This Texas-based organization has been working in Madagascar since 1996, conducting regular medical missions. True to its motto, "providing help and hope ," it collaborates closely with the Malagasy government to offer free surgical care and improve hospital infrastructure. This new partnership further demonstrates its commitment to bringing hope and assistance to the most vulnerable populations.

Hanitra Andria

https://midi-madagasikara.mg/don-de-mercy-ships-au-ministere-de-la-sante/

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MPOX in Madagascar: 229 infected, as of February 1st

03/02/2026 09:45
©Moov

As of February 1st, the Ministry of Public Health announced a number of 617 cases of MPOX in Madagascar.

There is no respite from the monkeypox pandemic in Madagascar. The number of infected individuals rose to 229 on February 1st, compared to 228 on January 31st and 224 on January 30th.

Since the start of the pandemic in Madagascar, the Boeny region has recorded the highest number of cases: 167 confirmed cases and 94 suspected cases. It should be noted that 22 of the island's 24 regions are currently affected by the pandemic, with 12 regions reporting cases. According to statistics from the Ministry of Public Health, the infected individuals are distributed as follows: 167 in Boeny, 30 in Analamanga, 10 each in Vakinankaratra and Haute Matsiatra, 4 in Sofia, 2 in Atsimo Andrefana, and 1 each in Betsiboka, Vatovavy, Anosy, Amoron'i Mania, Analanjirofo, and Bongolava.

A slow rise

In an average of six weeks, the number of people affected by MPOX barely exceeds 200. Furthermore, 112 people, nearly half of those infected, have already made a full recovery. These statistics confirm the effectiveness of the measures adopted by health authorities. However, awareness of the need for caution still needs to be strengthened: some people are still unaware of the viral disease, while others try home remedies when skin spots appear. It's also important to remember that protected sex does not prevent transmission of the disease.

A continuation of the fight against MPOX

The Ministry of Public Health continues to implement and adjust the various measures in the fight against MPOX. All suspected cases are immediately placed in isolation until a final decision is made after test results are received. Then, all confirmed cases are hospitalized until they no longer pose a risk of transmitting the disease to others.

Professor Randria Mamy Jean de Dieu, spokesperson for the Ministry of Public Health, continually reiterates the importance of preventative measures. It remains preferable to avoid handshakes and hugs, and to remember to use hand sanitizer or wash hands frequently.

https://www.moov.mg/article/112082-mpox-a-madagascar-229-contamines-a-la-date-du-1er-fevrier#body2

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Ministry of Public Health
4h ·

February 07, 2026: NEWS REPORT ON THE DEVELOPMENT OF POISONING DISEASE (MPOX) WITH ANDRIAMATOA PROF. MAMY RANDRIA "INCIDENT MANAGER" COUSP NATIONALE

(Screenshot from the video)


https://www.facebook.com/reel/3360530037432273

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Directorate of the Expanded Vaccination Program MSANP-Madagascar.'s Post

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Directorate of the Expanded Vaccination Program MSANP-Madagascar.
5h ·

𝗩𝗔𝗞𝗦𝗜𝗡𝗬 𝗠𝗣𝗢𝗫: 𝗟𝗔𝗛𝗔𝗥𝗔𝗠-𝗣𝗔𝗛𝗔𝗠𝗘𝗛𝗔𝗡𝗔 𝗛𝗢 𝗙𝗜𝗦𝗢𝗥𝗢𝗛𝗔𝗡𝗔 𝗡𝗬 𝗙𝗜𝗣𝗔𝗥𝗜𝗧𝗔𝗛𝗔𝗡’𝗡𝗬 𝗔𝗥𝗘𝗧𝗜𝗡𝗔.

The vaccine to prevent Mpox will arrive here by the end of the month.
Here are the benefits according to the instructions from the Experts:
Healthcare workers working at the grassroots level who have direct contact with patients.
The cases were identified in people who had been in contact or had direct contact with the patient less than 4 days after the case was discovered.
People living with HIV.
Workers in sectors that involve close and direct contact with many people, including pleasure boaters and long-distance drivers.
Regional and district health officials will be responsible for implementing and implementing all procedures for the vaccination of the above-mentioned individuals.

https://www.facebook.com/dpev.mada/posts/pfbid032GT8HhDSUrQWJosYZmn4Gxomi7Mpc8jd2Mpuzk2CJBT4BvJEyKudPBCxkH5B7qdnl

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Ministry of Public Health
4h
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🚨 February 17, 2026: NEWS REPORT ON THE DEVELOPMENT OF POISONING DISEASE (MPOX) WITH THE HOLY PROF. MAMY RANDRIA "INCIDENT MANAGER" COUSP NATIONALE 🚨
🗣️ My responsibility, your responsibility, our responsibility is to prevent and combat the spread of POISONING (MPOX).
💯 WORKING TOGETHER FOR CHANGE, HEALING THE NATION
©️The Joy of Communication.


(screenshot from the video)

https://www.facebook.com/reel/906784812270033

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February 24, 2026

MPOX: 387 confirmed cases in 34 districts

Eight new confirmed cases on February 22, 2026, have been added to the previous cases of mpox in Madagascar, bringing the total number of confirmed cases to 387, according to the latest report from the Ministry of Public Health released yesterday.

The eight cases of mpox confirmed on February 22, 2026, are all located in the Antananarivo Renivohitra district, according to the latest epidemic statistics provided by the Ministry of Public Health. This indicates an increase in the epidemic in Antananarivo, largely explained by the population density and, above all, by overcrowding in densely populated areas and high-traffic locations. Therefore, preventative measures are crucial to break the chain of transmission and limit the spread of the virus responsible for mpox.

A total of 387 confirmed cases of monkeypox (out of 952 reported cases) have been recorded in Madagascar, including 221 in the Mahajanga I district, the main epicenter of the outbreak, which accounts for 57% of all confirmed cases nationwide. Antananarivo Renivohitra has 48 confirmed cases (12% of the total), and Fianarantsoa has 13 (3%). The Antananarivo Atsimondrano and Toliara I districts each have 11 confirmed cases. These cases occurred over a ten-week period, from the 51st week of 2025, when mpox first appeared in Madagascar, to the 8th week of 2026, which ended last Sunday. Furthermore, 255 recoveries have been recorded to date. No deaths related to mpox have been reported in Madagascar to date. From December 18, 2025 to February 22, 2026, 34 districts were affected by monkeypox in the country.

Hanitra R.

https://midi-madagasikara.mg/mpox-387-cas-confirmes-dans-34-districts/

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Orange News Madagascar
2h ·

The epidemiological situation of Mpox in Madagascar saw new developments on March 1, 2026. Eleven new suspected cases were notified, while 14 confirmed cases were recorded in several localities: Sambava (2), Mahajanga I (6), Ambato Boeni (1), Antananarivo Renivohitra (4) and Antsirabe I (1).

The first death linked to the disease has been reported in Antananarivo. The deceased was a three-year-old girl. Health authorities reiterate that a body infected with Mpox can be a source of contamination and that the protocol for managing confirmed or suspected cases, validated by the World Health Organization (WHO), must be strictly followed. The body was transferred to Toamasina by the family and buried today, according to reports.

This first confirmed death, however, raises questions. Family members claim the child was admitted to the hospital for another health issue.

Since the start of the epidemic, 1,053 cases have been reported, including 547 confirmed, 332 negative, 15 probable, and 188 suspected. To date, 321 patients have been declared recovered.

https://www.facebook.com/orangeactu/...3798608991875/
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Santé Mada Connect
4h
·
News from Real TV:
🕊️A 3-year-old girl is the first person to die of MPOX in Madagascar, according to the confirmation given by the Ministry of Health through spokesperson Pr Mamy Randria today. 🩺
🌡️The child's health had deteriorated on Saturday, February 28, when her family took her to the Androhatapenaka hospital and was transferred at the family's request to be treated at the HOMI Soavinandriana and she did not survive but passed away on the night of Saturday, February 28, 2026, said Pr Mamy Randria.
🕊️The child is currently being buried by her family in Toamasina. There were still many complications before the family agreed to hold the immediate burial of Stecy, a 3-year-old girl. 🪦

REAL TV MADAGASCAR

https://www.facebook.com/pro.minsan/posts/vaovao-avy-aminny-real-tv-%EF%B8%8Fzazavavikely-3-taona-no-olona-voalohany-matinny-mpox-/784854728008746/

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Ministry of Public Health
2h ·
March 02, 2026: NEWS REPORT ON THE DEVELOPMENT OF POISONING DISEASE (MPOX) WITH ANDRIAMATOA PROF. MAMY RANDRIA "INCIDENT MANAGER" COUSP NATIONALE

https://www.facebook.com/minsanp/videos/-02-martsa-2026-fampitam-baovao-mombanny-fivoaranny-aretina-nendran-drajako-mpox/1239005611668973/

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OUTBREAK - Child dies of Mpox at military hospital

Miangaly Ralitera - Published on March 2, 2026

A three-year-old child has died from Mpox, according to health authorities. This is the first death linked to the disease since the start of the epidemic.

Madagascar has recorded its first death from Mpox. The victim was a 3-year-old child, according to the Public Health Emergency Operations Center (COUSP) yesterday. The death occurred following a delay in treatment, according to medical reports.

“The child had been ill for a few days and had received treatment. She was put in isolation at the University Hospital Center (CHU) of Andohatapenaka. She was already dehydrated, unable to drink or eat. She had started to show respiratory difficulties and hypothermia,” said Professor Mamy Randrianirina, the Incident Manager of the Cousp.

A source points out that children are among those vulnerable to Mpox and at high risk of developing complications.

The family, for its part, refused to admit that the child had Mpox. They attributed his hospitalization to a sprain that had been poorly treated by massage therapists. But the Cousp insisted on the Mpox diagnosis.

"The child already had skin lesions suspicious for Mpox on the body and back. The face did not necessarily show any lesions," notes Professor Mamy Randrianirina.

The victim's family had decided to remove the child from the Andohatapenaka treatment and isolation center, "against medical advice," to take him to another hospital. "Upon arrival at this other hospital, his condition was critical: septic shock, respiratory difficulties, and life-threatening distress, probably linked to complications from Mpox," the professor continued.

The child died during the night of February 28th to March 1st. Tests on samples taken from the victim revealed positive results for Mpox.

Burial

The family, who had been transporting the body to Toamasina since Sunday night, claim they were informed en route that they had to proceed with the burial immediately.

"We are being forced to bury our child's body immediately, with no possibility of bringing him home for a wake," the mother said, sobbing, in a live-streamed video.

Law enforcement officers escorted the vehicle and the body was buried yesterday, in accordance with the health protocol applicable to contagious diseases with a high risk of transmission.

“Once death is confirmed, the body must not be handled and must be immediately placed in a coffin. Only trained healthcare workers are authorized to handle it, not family members, in order to limit the risk of contamination,” explains Professor Mamy Randrianirina. He adds, “The body is then buried quickly to reduce the risk of transmission to relatives. The protocol also reiterates the prohibition of gatherings. This is why a wake must not be held,” he emphasizes.

The professor emphasizes that failure to adhere to these protocols facilitates the rapid spread of the infection. "After the cyclone, Toamasina's vulnerability increases the risk of an epidemic outbreak if the disease spirals out of control," warns a medical source.

Miangaly Ralitera

https://www.lexpress.mg/2026/03/epidemie-une-enfant-meurt-de-la-mpox.html