The situation linked to Mpox, or monkeypox, remains under close surveillance in Madagascar, with three regions affected: Boeny, Vakinankaratra and Analamanga. While five cases were initially confirmed, epidemiological investigations made it possible to identify 40 people placed under monitoring, said Prime Minister Herintsalama Rajaonarivelo.
Mahajanga remains the main focus of the epidemic, while one case was recorded in Antananarivo and another in Vakinankaratra. Five patients required hospitalization. All benefit from support provided by the State, in coordination with the WHO and University Hospital Centers (CHU). No deaths have been recorded, and drug stocks are considered sufficient.
To contain the spread of the virus, health barriers have been installed, particularly at the start of Mahajanga, with the deployment of early detection equipment, similar to that used during the Covid-19 pandemic. Wearing a mask, limiting physical contact and strict compliance with barrier measures are encouraged. A national monitoring unit, bringing together security forces and health authorities, monitors and manages cases. No border closures are planned for the moment, the exact origin of the epidemic remaining unknown.
The Ministry of National Education warns against the spread of the disease in educational establishments. To protect students and staff, vigilance committees must be reactivated in all schools. Furthermore, compliance with hygiene measures is imperative: frequent hand washing, wearing a mask, distancing, ban on sharing personal objects and regular disinfection of premises. Any student or staff member exhibiting symptoms — fever, rash, headache or fatigue — should be isolated and referred to a health center, and any suspected cases should be reported to authorities.
The Ministry of Higher Education and Scientific Research (MESUPRES) has also strengthened prevention measures. In a memo dated January 4, 2026, wearing a mask becomes compulsory in all universities, schools, institutes, research centers and at the National Center for Distance Education, in order to limit the spread of the virus.
The authorities are calling on the population to be vigilant, while ensuring continuous monitoring of the evolution of the situation and the possibility of adapting measures if the number of cases increases.
