Mpox cases in SA rises to 16 with 3 recorded deaths

South Africa has recorded three more cases of Mpox and another death relating to the disease. This was confirmed by the Department of Health, as efforts to curb the spread of this infectious disease are ongoing in the affected communities.

This brings the total number of laboratory-confirmed cases of Mpox in South Africa to 16 since the outbreak in May 2024, while the death toll is now sitting at three.

PICTURE: NICD

Mpox is an infectious disease caused by the monkeypox virus. It can be transmitted to a person through contact with the virus from an animal, human, or materials contaminated with the virus. It can cause a painful rash, enlarged lymph nodes, and a fever.

According to the department, the latest cases involve a 40-year-old man from Ladysmith in KwaZulu-Natal, who presented with smallpox-like symptoms, including a rash all over his body. He did not go to the hospital and passed away at home. His results came back positive for Mpox on Sunday, 23 June. Two additional cases have been confirmed in Gauteng. One case involves a 43-year-old man, who was diagnosed on 22 June at a local private health facility in Johannesburg. The second case is a 29-year-old male, who was diagnosed at a Mamelodi health facility on 21 June.

“They presented with symptoms indicative of disease and had no international travel history,” the department said.

Of the 16 infections, eight cases are from KwaZulu-Natal, seven cases are from Gauteng, and one case is from the Western Cape. All individuals involved in the cases are men aged between 23 and 43.

Speaking to Bush Radio’s Sakhisizwe Programme, Health Ministry spokesperson, Foster Mohale says albeit men are mostly infected, ‘’anyone can contract mpox regardless of age, gender, sexual orientation and race. It just happens that all cases are men, but in other countries children also got infected.’’

Mohale encouraged anyone who suspect that they might have been infected to visit their nearest health facility, including those who might have been in close contact with an infected person.

‘’Those who are showing symptoms to present at their nearest healthcare facilities immediately for screening and diagnosis, instead of self-diagnosis and using over-the-counter medication.’’

‘’Prevention is important like regular hand wash to prevent further spread. You can also get it by getting in contact with contaminated objects.’’

Mpox is preventable and manageable, and treatment for both mild and severe cases is available. People at high risk include those living with chronic conditions such as HIV, TB and diabetes.”

On measures being put in place, Mohale says: ‘’We are educating citizens about mpox and we are also grateful to radio stations like yourself where we spread the word on what citizens need to be aware of the disease. We are urging people not to discriminate others who contracted the illness.’’

 “The department would like to allay fears of possible travel restrictions or lockdowns due to the Mpox outbreak because the World Health Organisation has not recommended any travel restrictions. However, it is important for travellers from Mpox endemic countries to seek healthcare if they are ill and to alert health officials about their travel for clinical guidance.”

 

Done By: Mitchum George