Health Department Confirms Three New Mpox Cases in Ekurhuleni

The Department of Health has urged the public to remain vigilant after confirming three new Mpox cases in Ekurhuleni, east of Johannesburg.

The latest cases involve a 38-year-old man showing symptoms and two of his close contacts—a 14-year-old boy and a 33-year-old woman. None of them have a recent travel history to outbreak areas, suggesting local transmission.

These new infections bring the total number of Mpox cases in South Africa to 31 since the outbreak began in May 2024, including six recorded this year.

All three patients are in self-isolation and receiving treatment, while health authorities have deployed outbreak response teams for contact tracing and further investigation.

Mpox is usually mild with a low fatality rate, but symptoms can include fever, headaches, swollen lymph nodes, and a rash. Health officials stress that early detection and swift intervention are essential to preventing further spread.

“The risk of widespread transmission remains low in South Africa. However, anyone experiencing Mpox symptoms, even without known exposure, should seek medical attention immediately,” said Department of Health spokesperson Foster Mohale.

Additionally, all three patients tested positive for the herpes simplex virus, which causes painful blisters and spreads through direct skin contact, including unprotected sex.

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EWN