Monkeypox in Madagascar: more than 160 cases recorded in just one month

Mis à jour le 21 May 2026

A worrying surge in monkeypox in Madagascar: more than 160 cases in one month

The recent outbreak of the infectious disease known as monkeypox, or mpox, is causing increasing concern among Malagasy health authorities. With the number of cases now exceeding 160 in just one month, Madagascar is facing a dramatic situation that reveals the vulnerability of a healthcare system under pressure. This phenomenon is not isolated: it is part of a global context where the circulation of the virus is generating a health crisis of unexpected magnitude. The increase in these cases highlights not only increased transmissibility, but also the virus’s ability to spread to areas where epidemiological surveillance still needs to be strengthened. The likelihood of active community transmission and the need for a rapid response are becoming crucial issues in managing this epidemic. Disseminating comprehensive information and taking effective measures are the only way to prevent the crisis from worsening, especially since the still poorly understood disease could evolve into a dramatic public health emergency. Essential information on monkeypox: symptoms, modes of transmission, prevention, and treatment to better understand and protect yourself.

Since the start of the epidemic in December 2025, the situation in Madagascar has continued to deteriorate, with an exponential increase in

reported cases . According to the latest official figures, the disease has infected at least449 people 289 of these cases are suspected, revealing active viral circulation throughout the country. The geographic location of the cases tends to confirm rapid spread, particularly in regions like Boeny, which remains the most affected with 127 confirmed cases. The Analamanga region, the administrative hub, has 19 confirmed cases and 45 suspected cases, while Vakinankaratra, a strategic region, has six confirmed cases and almost thirty suspected cases. This regional distribution indicates a worrying spread, making it more difficult to control the transmission of the virus. Enhanced health surveillance measures have been implemented, but their effectiveness remains to be seen in the face of an epidemic that appears to be spiraling out of control. The contagiousness of monkeypox and the initially slow response are facilitating rapid spread in an environment where public awareness still needs to be significantly improved.

The determining factors of the monkeypox health emergency in Madagascar

Discover essential information about monkeypox, its symptoms, modes of transmission, prevention, and treatments to better protect yourself.

Public health strategies in response to the monkeypox epidemic in Madagascar in 2026 Faced with this critical situation, local health authorities have implemented a series of measures aimed at curbing the spread of the disease. Information campaigns, using visual aids showing cases of monkeypox, emphasize the importance of simple actions such as regular handwashing and avoiding contact with people who have skin lesions. Raising awareness is a key lever for bringing about behavioral change in regions where mistrust and a lack of knowledge remain prevalent.Furthermore, containment measures, contact tracing, and increased hospital capacity have been reinforced. Vaccination against smallpox, due to the virus’s partial resistance, is being considered in some cases to limit the severity of clinical symptoms. Epidemiological surveillance has become an absolute priority, with the proliferation of PCR tests, which are now reaching a positivity rate of over 52%, illustrating very active viral circulation. Communication programs also aim to dispel fear and encourage a collective response to this threat. Regional cooperation, particularly with the Comoros and Réunion, is also essential for coordinating an effective multilateral response. The speed of the response and the consistency of the measures largely determine the outcome of this health crisis, which, if not brought under control quickly, could be protracted. How Monkeypox Virus Transmission Facilitates the Spread of the Epidemic in Madagascar

The virus is primarily transmitted through close, even prolonged, physical contact with infected individuals or contaminated objects. Geographical and social proximity facilitates this spread, particularly during community events or within families where the virus can rapidly spread from one member to another. Transmission through bodily fluids or contact with skin lesions is the most common route of entry for the spread of monkeypox.

Young adults, children, and immunocompromised individuals remain particularly vulnerable to the virus due to their weakened immune systems. The circulation of the virus in several regions, sometimes even among wild animals, creates an additional risk of new outbreaks. Limited knowledge about the virus’s ability to persist on surfaces or in the environment complicates the implementation of effective preventive measures.

The Challenges of Epidemiological Surveillance and Prevention of Monkeypox in Madagascar

Epidemiological surveillance must play a central role in the fight against monkeypox in Madagascar. Early detection of cases, contact tracing, and outbreak mapping are essential to prevent the spread of the virus. However, this strategy continues to face several challenges: limited resources, insufficient laboratory capacity, and logistical difficulties.

To improve this situation, significant efforts must be made to strengthen the capacity of healthcare facilities. The integration of new technologies, such as telemedicine and real-time data analysis, could play a crucial role in detecting clusters and anticipating outbreaks.

In parallel, community awareness campaigns, with the dissemination of reliable information, would increase vigilance and citizen engagement, essential for limiting transmission. Collaboration with international partners is also underway to ensure a comprehensive strategy focused on prevention, vaccination, and patient management.

	Region	Confirmed Cases	Suspected Cases
Positive Rate	Boeny 🏝️	127	≈127
~52%	Analamanga 🏙️	19	45
approximately 50%	Vakinankaratra ⛰️	6	28

over 52%

Challenges to curb the spread of the virus and avoid a global crisis

To effectively contain the spread of monkeypox in Madagascar, authorities must move beyond traditional methods and adopt a comprehensive strategy integrating prevention, vaccination, and hospital management. Weak infrastructure, a lack of understanding of the virus, and public reluctance remain significant obstacles to an effective response.

Awareness campaigns must be accompanied by collective commitment, facilitated by structured and accessible information campaigns. The need for an international effort is also urgent, particularly by drawing on experience gained from other epidemics, such as influenza or COVID-19.

Improved regional coordination, especially with neighboring islands, would help curb cross-border transmission. Securing vaccine supply chains and implementing a strengthened surveillance system should contribute to a more appropriate response.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bdK5iYctjdE Concrete measures proposed for the urgent control of monkeypox in Madagascar For the effective management of the

more than 160 cases recorded

in one month, several actions must be taken quickly. The priority is to strengthen diagnostic capacity with the massive deployment of PCR tests in all affected regions. Simultaneously, the implementation of a targeted vaccination campaign, particularly for vulnerable populations, could reduce the severity of the disease.

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The deployment of information campaigns on preventative measures, complemented by awareness campaigns via audiovisual media, is also a crucial step. Quarantine measures and hospital management of infected patients must be systematized to prevent transmission within healthcare facilities.

Finally, cooperation with international partners provides essential technical and logistical support to address this crisis. The success of these strategies would benefit the entire region by limiting the spread and preventing a more serious health crisis.

How is monkeypox primarily transmitted in Madagascar?

Transmission occurs mainly through direct contact with contaminated lesions, secretions, or objects, or through close contact with an infected person.

What can citizens do to protect themselves against monkeypox?

Adopt rigorous hygiene practices, avoid contact with people showing symptoms, and follow the recommendations of health authorities.

What are the risks if the monkeypox epidemic is not controlled?

A rapid worsening of the situation, uncontrolled transmission, and the possibility of the virus becoming endemic in certain regions.

What epidemiological surveillance tools are being used in Madagascar?

Mass PCR testing, contact tracing, outbreak mapping, and the use of new technologies for rapid detection. What are the key factors in containing this health crisis?

Collective mobilization, effective communication, regional cooperation, and strengthened international support.