The public is being encouraged to remain vigilant in the wake of the confirmation of three new cases of Mpox in Gauteng.

In Ekurhuleni, Gauteng, the Department of Health has confirmed three additional cases of Mpox, bringing the total number of cases in South Africa to 31 since the outbreak began in May 2024.

Specifications of the New Cases
A 38-year-old male who presented with symptoms of Mpox at a healthcare facility is among the newly identified cases. The initial patient has been identified as a contact of two additional individuals, a 14-year-old boy and a 33-year-old woman, who have also tested positive. It is important to note that none of the patients have reported recent travel to regions that are presently experiencing Mpox outbreaks.

Response Measures and Current Statistics
South Africa has recorded 31 Mpox cases since the outbreak’s inception, with six cases reported since the beginning of this year. Regrettably, the disease has claimed the lives of three individuals. Currently, the patients who are afflicted are receiving appropriate clinical care and self-isolating. In response, outbreak response teams in Gauteng have been activated to conduct contact tracing and case investigations in the affected areas.

Herpes Simplex Virus Co-Infection

The herpes simplex virus (HSV), a prevalent viral infection that results in excruciating blisters or ulcers, has also been detected in all three new Mpox patients. HSV is predominantly transmitted through skin-to-skin contact, which includes kissing and unprotected sexual activity. HSV is not curable and can be asymptomatic, despite being treatable. The following symptoms are present: a fever, headache, muscle pains, back pain, low energy, and swollen glands. The rash typically lasts for 2 to 4 weeks.

Public Health Advisory
The Department of Health strongly encourages the public to remain vigilant for the symptoms of Mpox, which typically manifest 3 to 21 days after exposure and include:
• Sores, pimple-like lesions, or rashes
• Mouth ulcers, lesions, or fissures
• Rectal pain (pain in and around the anus), which may manifest without a rash

Fever, chills, swollen lymph nodes, exhaustion, muscle pains, backache, headache, and respiratory symptoms such as sore throat, nasal congestion, or cough are additional symptoms that may be present.

Preventative Actions
To mitigate the risk of contracting Mpox, it is recommended that the public refrain from: • Avoiding intimate, skin-to-skin contact with individuals who exhibit a rash that resembles Mpox.
• Avoid contacting the rash or scabs of an infected individual.
• Refrain from sharing eating implements or cups with an individual who has Mpox.
• Ensure that condoms are used correctly and consistently during sexual activity to prevent genital herpes and other sexually transmitted infections.
• Maintain proper hand hygiene by frequently washing your hands with detergent and water or using an alcohol-based hand sanitizer.

If you suspect that you are experiencing symptoms that are consistent with Mpox, it is important to obtain medical advice promptly and avoid close contact with others until you have been evaluated by a healthcare professional.