Mpox Outbreak in Madagascar: Latest Updates and Vaccine Rollout

Madagascar is currently facing a growing outbreak of mpox, with cases steadily increasing since the initial confirmation in late December 2025. Health officials are working to contain the spread of the virus, with a particular focus on protecting vulnerable populations, including children.

Outbreak Overview

The mpox outbreak was officially declared by the Ministry of Public Health on December 30, 2025, following laboratory confirmation of the virus, identified as Clade 1b UNICEF. As of March 11, 2026, a total of 1,186 cases have been reported since December 18, 2025, with 539 cases confirmed across 37 districts Madagasikara.

Mahajanga remains the epicenter of the outbreak, accounting for 280 confirmed cases, representing 52% of the total. Antananarivo Capital follows with 74 cases (14%), Antananarivo Atsimondrano with 25 cases (5%), Toliara with 22 cases (4%), and Fianarantsoa with 15 cases (3%) Madagasikara.

Impact on Children

Whereas the epidemic primarily affects adults, with a median age of suspected cases at 23, children under the age of five are considered particularly vulnerable Save the Children. As of January 19, 2026, 8 confirmed cases involved children, and 84 suspected cases were reported among children Save the Children, UNICEF. This is concerning given that children, particularly those who are malnourished or have limited access to healthcare, are at a higher risk of severe illness and death from mpox, as seen in previous outbreaks in Africa, such as in the Democratic Republic of Congo in 2024 Save the Children.

Vaccination Efforts

To combat the outbreak, 30,000 doses of mpox vaccine produced by Bavarian Nordic have been delivered to Madagascar Madagasikara. The vaccine has received a positive assessment from the Technical Advisory Group on Vaccination (GT-CV) of Madagascar, aligning with national procedures. These doses will be used for targeted vaccination of frontline health workers and individuals at high risk, following guidelines set by health authorities Madagasikara.

Current Situation

As of March 2, 2026, one death has been confirmed, a 3-year-old child who died on February 28, 2026, at the Cenhosoa hospital center Madagasikara. To date, 374 patients have been declared cured Madagasikara.