Health Department calls for calm as WHO declares Mpox a public health emergency of international concern

The Department of Health has assured South Africans that the current Mpox outbreak remains under control.

“However, this does not mean people should become complacent because we have learned from the COVID-19 pandemic that viruses are unpredictable as they mutate from time to time,’’ said Foster Mohale, Health ministry spokesperson.

According to the department, South Africa remains on high alert in case of a surge in Mpox cases and the emergence of new contagious strains. It has since called on citizens to play their part and support the country’s response efforts to prevent the spread of Mpox by maintaining nonpharmaceutical measures, including personal hygiene.

PICTURE: NICD

The total number of positive cases recorded in the country as of Sunday, 18 August 2024, stands at 24 including three deaths, 19 recoveries and two active cases undergoing home isolation. Twelve cases were reported in Gauteng, 11 in KwaZulu-Natal and one in the Western Cape.

Meanwhile, various pharmaceutical interventions, including additional treatments and vaccines, are being considered. The decision will be based on epidemiological data, the department added.

The department also clarified that both the declarations by the Africa Centres for Disease Control and Prevention (Africa CDC) and the World Health Organisation (WHO) do not translate into trade and travel restrictions. This is after the ongoing outbreak of Mpox has been officially declared a Public Health Emergency of International Concern (PHEIC) by the WHO.

The department said this serves as a clarion call for Member States, including South Africa, to work together, fast-track approval of Mpox vaccine and treatment while maintaining strict safety protocols, and ensuring these life-saving vaccines reach the most vulnerable populations to prevent the further spread of this infectious, but treatable disease.

“The department will keep the public updated on the situation and response efforts, including as and when there are new developments. We encourage businesses and organisations with operations in the affected countries to ensure [they] put measures in place to ensure their employees who regularly travel to and from South Africa, are well informed of Mpox; and are fit to travel,’’ said Mohale.

 

Done By: Stephanie van Rayen