Nelson Mandela Bay Municipality Urges Vigilance Against Mpox

The municipality, in collaboration with the Eastern Cape Department of Health and private healthcare facilities, conducted investigations after receiving news of the outbreak.

With the 2024 festive season on the horizon, the Nelson Mandela Bay Municipality has urged residents to stay vigilant against the spread of mpox (Monkeypox), a disease that emerged in South Africa earlier this year. Despite no recorded cases in the metro as of October 2024, the municipality is stressing the importance of awareness and caution as travel and gatherings peak during the holiday season.

The municipality, in collaboration with the Eastern Cape Department of Health and private healthcare facilities, conducted investigations after receiving news of the outbreak. Although no cases were found locally, the municipality advises residents to seek medical attention if they experience mpox-related symptoms.

What Is Mpox?

Mpox is a viral infectious disease caused by the Monkeypox virus, part of the Orthopoxvirus genus. It can spread through close physical contact, including touch, kissing, or sexual contact, as well as through contaminated objects like needles. Pregnant individuals can also transmit the virus to their unborn babies.

Symptoms of Mpox

Symptoms of mpox typically appear within 1–21 days after exposure and can last 2–4 weeks, though they may persist longer in people with weakened immune systems. Common symptoms include:

Rash: Starting as a flat sore, developing into a blister, and eventually drying up and crusting over.

Fever

Sore throat

Headache

Muscle and back pain

Low energy

Swollen lymph nodes

The rash can appear anywhere on the body, including the face, palms, soles, groin, and genital areas. Children, pregnant individuals, and those with weak immune systems are at a higher risk of complications.

Potential Complications

Mpox can lead to severe health issues, including:

Bacterial skin infections and abscesses

Pneumonia

Corneal infections leading to vision loss

Severe dehydration from vomiting and diarrhea

Sepsis, encephalitis, myocarditis, and other organ inflammations

Death, particularly in immunocompromised individuals

Most people, however, recover within 2–4 weeks.

Precautions and Treatment

To help prevent spreading the virus and alleviate symptoms, the municipality advises:

Isolating in your own room if possible

Washing hands frequently with soap or hand sanitizer

Wearing a mask and covering lesions around others until fully healed

Keeping sores dry and uncovered unless around other people

Disinfecting shared spaces and avoiding shared items

Using saltwater rinses for mouth sores and taking pain relievers

Ensuring salons and tattoo parlours sterilize equipment between customers

As mpox continues to be a public health concern, the Nelson Mandela Bay Municipality encourages residents to remain informed and proactive in protecting themselves and others.