South Africa Reports Six New Mpox Cases, Total Now 13

The first case of Mpox, previously known as Monkeypox, was reported on 9 May 2024, when a 35-year-old male in Gauteng tested positive.

South Africa has identified six additional laboratory-confirmed cases of Mpox, increasing the total number of cases to 13 since the first case was reported last month. The new infections were reported in Gauteng and the Western Cape, with the death toll remaining at two.

The first case of Mpox, previously known as Monkeypox, was reported on 9 May 2024, when a 35-year-old male in Gauteng tested positive.

In a recent statement, the Department of Health announced that it has received a batch of Mpox-specific treatment, Tecovirimat (TPOXX or ST-246), for patients experiencing severe health complications due to Mpox. The department is also working to secure more treatments and vaccines in case of increased need. Mild cases will continue to be managed with supportive treatment for symptoms such as fever, pneumonia, and skin infections.

The government urges everyone, regardless of gender, age, or sexual orientation, who has suspected Mpox symptoms or who had physical contact with known cases to visit a healthcare facility. Mpox is a preventable and treatable disease, and early medical intervention is crucial.

Hand hygiene remains a key preventive measure. The Department of Health reminds people to wash hands with soap and water or use an alcohol-based hand sanitiser, especially before eating, touching the face, or after using the bathroom.

Common symptoms of Mpox include a rash lasting two to four weeks, fever, headache, muscle aches, back pain, low energy, and swollen glands. The rash is painful, resembling blisters or sores, and can appear on the face, palms, soles, groin, and other areas of the body.