South Africa has identified six additional laboratory-confirmed cases of Mpox, bringing the total number of cases from seven to 13 since the first case was reported last month.
The Department of Health confirmed new infections in Gauteng and the Western Cape, with the death toll remaining at two.
The first case of Monkeypox, now referred to as Mpox, was reported in South Africa on May 9, 2024, involving a 35-year-old male in Gauteng who tested positive.
In its latest update, the department announced the arrival of Mpox-specific treatment Tecovirimat (TPOXX or ST-246) to manage severe health complications from Mpox disease. Plans are also underway to secure additional treatment, including vaccines, as a precautionary measure. Mild cases will continue to receive supportive treatment for complications such as fever, pneumonia, and skin infections.
The government is urging anyone with suspected Mpox symptoms or who has had physical contact with known cases to seek medical attention promptly, emphasizing that Mpox is preventable and treatable.
The department emphasized the importance of hand hygiene in preventing the spread of diseases, recommending frequent hand washing with soap and water or using alcohol-based hand sanitizers, especially before eating, touching the face, or after using the bathroom.
Common symptoms of Mpox include rash, fever, headache, muscle aches, back pain, fatigue, and swollen glands. The rash, resembling blisters or sores, can appear on the face, palms, soles of the feet, groin, among other areas.
