The Department of Health has urged the public to remain vigilant regarding symptoms of mpox, as three additional laboratory-confirmed cases of the disease have been identified in Ekurhuleni, Gauteng.
The newly confirmed cases include a 38-year-old man, who sought treatment at a healthcare facility due to symptoms of mpox.
The other two cases involve a 14-year-old boy and a 33-year-old woman, both of whom have been in contact with the first patient.
“None of the patients have recent travel history to countries or regions currently experiencing an outbreak, which suggests there is ongoing local transmission of the virus in the country,” the department explained.
In addition, the department announced that all three new mpox patients also tested positive for a relatively unknown, but common virus known as herpes simplex virus (HSV).
“This is a viral infection that causes painful blisters or ulcers which mainly spreads through skin-to-skin contact including kissing and unprotected sex, hence consistent and correct use of condoms remains the best way to prevent genital herpes and other STIs [sexually transmitted infections].”
According to the department, the virus is generally asymptomatic, and treatable, but not curable.
The department believes that the recent cases highlight the necessity of rapid and well-coordinated contact tracing for early detection and effective management of positive cases.
The latest cases have increased the total number of positive cases from 28 to 31, since the outbreak began in May 2024. This total includes six cases recorded since the beginning of this year.
The department said the patients are currently self-isolating and receiving appropriate clinical management from the healthcare workers.
Meanwhile, the department has activated outbreak response teams in the province for contact tracing and case investigation in the affected areas.
Mpox is typically a mild and self-limiting disease with a low case fatality rate.
“The risk of wider transmission remains low in South Africa, but anyone can contract mpox regardless of age, gender, sexual orientation and race.”
The symptoms include a rash which may last for two to four weeks, fever, headache, muscle aches, back pain, low energy and swollen glands. – SAnews.gov.za
