Department of Health confirms three new Mpox cases in Ekurhuleni
Department of Health confirms three new Mpox cases in Ekurhuleni! The Department of Health has issued a public health alert after confirming three new cases of Mpox (formerly known as Monkeypox) in Ekurhuleni, east of Johannesburg.
The latest cases include a 38-year-old man who initially presented with Mpox symptoms, as well as two of his close contacts—a 14-year-old boy and a 33-year-old woman.
Local Transmission Confirmed
Health officials have raised concerns over local transmission, as none of the three individuals had recent travel history to known outbreak areas.
This suggests that the virus is now spreading within communities rather than being imported from other regions.
“The risk of wider transmission remains low in South Africa. However, people who experience Mpox symptoms—whether or not they’ve been in contact with a known case—should immediately seek medical attention,” said Department of Health spokesperson Foster Mohale.
Mpox cases
Current Mpox Outbreak in South Africa
The three new cases bring the total number of confirmed Mpox infections in South Africa to 31 since the outbreak began in May 2024.
Of these, six cases have been recorded in 2025.
To contain the spread, outbreak response teams have been deployed for contact tracing and case investigation. Meanwhile, the affected individuals are currently self-isolating and receiving medical care.
What is Mpox?
Mpox is a viral disease that typically presents with mild symptoms and has a low fatality rate. However, it can still cause discomfort and complications in some cases.
Common symptoms include:
- A rash that develops into fluid-filled blisters, typically appearing on the face, hands, feet, and genitals.
- Fever, headaches, and muscle aches.
- Swollen lymph nodes.
The virus spreads through close physical contact, including skin-to-skin contact, respiratory droplets, and contact with contaminated objects such as clothing and bedding.
Early Detection and Prevention Measures
Health authorities have emphasized the importance of early detection and prompt medical intervention to prevent the virus from spreading further.
South Africans are urged to:
✅ Seek medical help if they develop any Mpox symptoms, especially if they have been in contact with an infected person.
✅ Avoid skin-to-skin contact with anyone who has an unexplained rash or blisters.
✅ Follow good hygiene practices, including frequent handwashing.
✅ Refrain from sharing personal items such as towels, bedding, and clothing with others.
Additional Health Concerns: Herpes Simplex Virus Detected
In a concerning development, all three new Mpox patients have also tested positive for the Herpes Simplex Virus (HSV).
Herpes Simplex Virus causes painful blisters and is highly contagious, spreading through:
- Direct skin-to-skin contact, including during unprotected sex.
- Saliva and bodily fluids.
- Shared personal items like lip balm, utensils, or towels.
While Mpox and HSV are different viruses, their co-occurrence raises concerns about co-infection risks and the impact on the immune system.
Government Response and Next Steps
To curb further infections, the Department of Health has activated rapid response teams to:
- Identify and monitor close contacts of confirmed Mpox patients.
- Increase public awareness about symptoms and transmission.
- Provide medical guidance for those infected.
Although no widespread outbreak has been declared, health officials remain vigilant and will continue monitoring the situation.
Conclusion
With local transmission confirmed, South Africans must remain cautious and proactive in protecting themselves from Mpox.
The public is urged to stay informed, take necessary precautions, and report symptoms immediately to prevent further spread.
