Mpox outbreak has been declared global emergency by World Health Organisation (WHO). This was officially announced by the Minister of Health, Mr. Selibe Mochoboroane when making a statement in the National Assembly on Tuesday.

The Minister who outlined the Ministry;s preparedness plan against the disease once referred to as monkey pox allayed fears, saying Lesotho has not recorded any case thus far. He added, seven African Countries including South Africa have reported cases, indicating 8 479 people have it while a total of 401 have died.

He explained that those at risk are people with weaker immune system due to a number of health issues, those with multiple sexual partners as well as men who have sex with other men, noting the disease is transmissible. He pointed out signs include fever, headache, fatigue and muscle aches as well as backache to mention a few. Therefore, he warned all to be mindful of the mentioned signs, indicating at least 200 health professionals have already been trained as part of proactive measures.

Moreover, Minister Mochoboroane said though relations are not too good   between Lesotho and South Africa due to a trending  alleging Basotho should be beaten in South Africa, they will be holding talks with the neighbouring officials to tackle the challenge together.