Cameroon is facing a resurgence of monkeypox, with 22 confirmed cases reported by health authorities. The Minister of Public Health, Manouda Malachie, announced these figures at a press conference held in Douala on February 19, 2026. Fortunately, no deaths have been reported among these cases.
The reappearance of the disease in the country dates back to November 14, 2025. As of February 16, 2026, surveillance data indicated 116 suspected cases, of which 22 were confirmed by laboratory analysis. The Minister emphasized that monkeypox is not new to Cameroon, with the virus circulating endemically since the 1970s.
Dr. Manouda specified that two strains of the virus, clade 1 and clade 2, have been detected in the country, thus explaining the periodic resurgences of the disease. Confirmed cases have been reported in four regions: Centre, Littoral, East, and South-West. Infections have been detected in health facilities, notably in Douala, at the Akwaya district hospital, and in Abong-Mbang.
The Minister warned against the emergence of new variants associated with increased human-to-human transmission, particularly through close physical contact, and causing more severe symptoms. Transmission can occur through contact with infected animals or through close human contact.
In response to this situation, the government is strengthening its response, including plans to acquire vaccines to protect high-risk populations. The Cameroonian health system remains on alert in the face of this threat, while continuing to fight other diseases such as measles and polio. Between January and December 2025, 10 cases of monkeypox were confirmed out of 86 suspected cases, representing a positivity rate of 13.9%.
Health authorities insist on the crucial importance of continuous monitoring and rapid intervention to stem any further spread. Vigilance and public awareness remain essential tools to limit the risk of infection.
