SA records 3 new Monkeypox cases, public urged to take precautions
The National Health Department has urged the public to take extra precautions after confirming three new cases of Mpox (formerly known as Monkeypox) in South Africa.
The virus, which is currently circulating in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) and Uganda, has been detected in travellers returning home from affected regions.
Three Cases Confirmed in Gauteng
According to Health Department spokesperson Foster Mohale, the three cases were identified and recorded last week.
“The first case was confirmed on 21 February 2025 in a 30-year-old male patient residing in Ekurhuleni, Gauteng Province. The patient had a recent travel history to Kampala, Uganda,” said Mohale.
The second and third cases were detected through contact tracing and involve a 30-year-old man and a 27-year-old woman, both also from Ekurhuleni.
Monkeypox
Authorities quickly isolated the individuals and monitored their close contacts to prevent further spread of the virus.
Patients Under Self-Quarantine
Mohale assured the public that all three patients are in self-quarantine at home and are being closely monitored by health officials.
“The patients are recovering well, and there is currently no immediate risk to the broader community,” he stated.
What is Mpox?
Mpox is a viral disease that spreads through close physical contact, respiratory droplets, or contaminated objects.
The symptoms include:
- Fever
- Headache
- Swollen lymph nodes
- Fatigue and muscle aches
- Rashes or lesions on the face, hands, feet, and genital area
Although Mpox is not as easily transmissible as COVID-19, early detection and isolation are crucial in preventing outbreaks.
How is Mpox Spreading Globally?
The virus has been spreading rapidly in the DRC and Uganda, with cases also being reported globally as travellers return home from affected areas.
The World Health Organization (WHO) has warned that new outbreaks could emerge in countries where people are not vaccinated or have not been previously exposed to the virus.
South Africa’s Response to the Outbreak
The National Health Department has activated surveillance at ports of entry, particularly at airports where travellers from high-risk regions are arriving.
Health officials are also:
✅ Conducting contact tracing to identify individuals who may have been exposed.
✅ Monitoring quarantined patients to ensure their recovery.
✅ Educating the public on how to prevent infection.
Should South Africans Be Worried?
Mohale reassured South Africans that there is no need for panic, as the risk of widespread transmission remains low.
“The situation is under control, and we are taking all necessary steps to contain the virus. We encourage good hygiene and early medical intervention if symptoms appear,” he added.
How Can You Protect Yourself?
To reduce the risk of infection, health experts recommend the following:
✔️ Avoid close physical contact with people who have Mpox-like symptoms.
✔️ Wash your hands regularly with soap and water.
✔️ Use hand sanitizers when soap and water are not available.
✔️ Avoid sharing personal items like towels, utensils, and bedding with infected individuals.
✔️ Seek medical attention if you experience symptoms, especially if you have travelled recently.
What Happens Next?
Authorities will continue monitoring the situation and provide updates if more cases are detected.
Travellers returning from Mpox-affected countries are urged to report any symptoms immediately to health officials.
With proper precautions, health officials believe further spread of the virus can be prevented in South Africa.
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