Madagascar reports 5 confirmed cases of mpox

　　ANTANANARIVO, Dec. 31 (Xinhua) -- Madagascar has confirmed five cases of mpox in the country's northwestern city of Mahajanga.

　　The confirmation came after tests from the LA2M laboratory and the Pasteur Institute of Madagascar, Minister of Public Health Monira Managna said in a statement on Tuesday. These are the first confirmed cases of mpox detected on the island.

　　Government spokesperson Gascar Fenosoa has announced the activation of a response plan, including an update to the National Contingency Plan and the mobilization of a coordination and surveillance team.

　　In Mahajanga, an emergency public health operational center has been established to search for more active cases, carry out patient isolation and treatment, and to strengthen health checks at entry points such as ports and airports.

　　The public has been urged to remain vigilant and strictly adhere to preventive measures. ■