The risk of Mpox transmission in Southern African Development Community (SADC) countries remains lower than in many traveller source markets, and typical tourist activities do not put travellers at a high risk for contracting Mpox, says tourism development organisation the SADC Business Council Tourism Alliance.

Southern Africa remains a low-risk, safe and welcoming destination for tourism. Countries in the region have taken swift and coordinated response to the situation, while the risk to travellers is minimal, the organisation assures tourists.

The World Health Organisation has declared Mpox a public health emergency of international concern for the second time in two years and, on August 13, the Africa Centres for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) declared it a public health emergency of continental security.

These declarations were prompted by the emergence of a new strain, named clade Ib, in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) and its spread to neighbouring countries, the tourism organisation says.

SADC member countries are implementing robust measures to manage and mitigate potential spread of the virus, says SADC Business Council Tourism Alliance chairperson Tshifhiwa Tshivengwa.

"We take these declarations [by health bodies] seriously and commend the proactive approach by global and regional health authorities.

"Our global partners and potential visitors can be reassured that Southern Africa continues to offer safe, unforgettable experiences. SADC member countries have taken proactive steps to manage health concerns and ensure that tourism activities remain low-risk and enjoyable," he says.

Botswana has intensified screening for Mpox at selected ports of entry, including Kazungula, Maun Airport and Gaborone Airport, as part of proactive measures to prevent the spread of the virus.

Similarly, Angola has not registered any cases of Mpox but has reinforced its contingency plan, particularly focusing on border control with the DRC and Congo.

Malawi, Mozambique, Namibia, Zambia and Zimbabwe have not reported Mpox cases, but have heightened surveillance and preparedness measures, the SADC Business Council Tourism Alliance says.

South Africa's Department of Health has reported 24 cases of Mpox, of clade IIb, as of August 2024, primarily affecting people who had physical contact with an infectious person. The country has implemented enhanced surveillance and contact-tracing protocols.

Further, while the DRC is experiencing a significant outbreak, it is working closely with the WHO and the Africa CDC to implement control measures.

However, typical tourist destinations in Southern Africa are far from affected areas, Tshivengwa notes.

Nonetheless, travellers are advised to practice good hygiene, including frequent hand washing, and avoid close contact with individuals who appear ill or have visible skin lesions.

Travellers should also stay informed about health guidelines in their specific destination, and seek medical attention if they develop symptoms, such as fever or unexplained skin rash, he says.

He adds that safari and wildlife viewing activities are safe and that there is no increased risk of Mpox transmission from being in natural environments or around wildlife.

"SADC member States have also implemented surveillance, contact tracing and treatment protocols to effectively manage potential Mpox cases," says Tshivengwa.

The SADC Business Council Tourism Alliance remains committed to providing accurate, up-to-date information and ensuring a safe, welcoming environment for all who wish to experience the wonders of Southern Africa, he notes.