MPox and African Travel: Your Questions Answered
As your trusted partner in African tourism, SATSA and Africa's Eden understand that recent news about MPox may have raised questions about travel safety. We're pleased to share authoritative information to help you make informed decisions about travel to Africa.
Key Points to Remember
The risk of contracting MPox during typical safari or nature-focused trips remains very low—often lower than in many travellers' home countries.
According to Prof Lucille H Blumberg of The National Institute for Communicable Diseases (NICD), travellers to South Africa face minimal risk, as transmission requires intimate contact rather than casual interactions.
Regular tourist activities such as wildlife viewing, staying in safari camps, or travelling through airports pose no specific MPox-related risks.
Current Situation in Africa
While some African nations have reported cases, it's important to note that MPox is now a global issue, not specifically an African one. The most affected regions are limited to specific areas, primarily the Democratic Republic of the Congo, Burundi, and Nigeria. South Africa remains a low-risk destination, with the situation being entirely unrelated to outbreaks elsewhere on the continent.
Practical Travel Advice
Travellers can stay safe by following simple precautions:
- Maintaining good personal hygiene
- Avoiding close contact with visibly unwell individuals
- Consulting healthcare providers about individual vaccination needs before travel
Supporting African Tourism
We want to emphasise that responsible tourism continues to play a vital role in supporting local economies and communities. By taking sensible precautions and staying informed, visitors can safely enjoy all that Africa offers while contributing positively to local development.
For the most up-to-date information, we recommend consulting the World Health Organisation (WHO) website or your national health authority.
