Madagascar has confirmed its first recorded death linked to mpox, marking a somber moment in the country’s fight against the viral disease.
The victim was a three-year-old girl from Toamasina, a major port city on the island’s eastern coast. She died on Saturday after being hospitalized, according to the Ministry of Public Health.
Health Ministry spokesperson Mamy Randria said the child was initially admitted to a hospital before being transferred to a public facility at her family’s request. She later passed away.
Doctors observed visible skin rashes on her body. They also reported that she was already in a weakened state when she arrived at the hospital.
Family members said the girl first fell ill after suffering a sprained ankle. They sought help from traditional healers before turning to medical facilities. According to relatives, there were delays and refusals of care at several hospitals.
Despite initial resistance from her family, laboratory tests later confirmed that the child had mpox, authorities said.
Mpox, formerly known as monkeypox, is a viral disease related to smallpox. It spreads through close contact with infected individuals, contaminated materials, or animals. Symptoms often include fever, swollen lymph nodes, and a characteristic rash.
Madagascar first reported mpox cases on December 30 last year. The initial five infections were identified in Mahajanga, a city in the Boeny region in the country’s west.
Since the outbreak began, health authorities have recorded 457 confirmed cases nationwide. Of those, 321 patients have recovered, according to official figures released this week.
Public health officials are urging citizens to seek medical attention early if symptoms appear. They are also encouraging communities to rely on verified medical advice and avoid misinformation.
The government says surveillance and response efforts have been intensified, particularly in areas reporting higher numbers of infections. Health teams are conducting contact tracing and raising awareness about prevention measures.
