The Ministry of Health has confirmed that the country has recorded three more positive cases of MPOX (formerly known as monkeypox) and one death, as efforts to contain the spread of this infectious disease in affected communities across the country are ongoing are. However, no cases have yet been confirmed in the Free State.
According to the department, the latest cases/patients include a 40-year-old man from Ladysmith in KwaZulu-Natal, who suffered from MPox-like symptoms, including a rash all over his body, and was never admitted to hospital.
“He died at home and the results were positive for mpox on June 23, 2024. The other two cases were confirmed in Gauteng, including a 43-year-old man who was diagnosed at a local private health facility in Johannesburg on June 22, 2024. and a 29-year-old man diagnosed at Mamelodi Health Facility on June 21, 2024. This brings the total number of laboratory-confirmed cases of MPOX in South Africa to 16 since the outbreak of the disease in May 2024,” the department said. .
In collaboration with provinces and other industry stakeholders, the department has begun providing health education to funeral homes on how to handle remains of deceased persons with suspected and confirmed MPOX.
“The department wants to allay fears of possible travel restrictions or lockdowns due to the mpox outbreak, as the World Health Organization has not recommended any travel restrictions. However, it is important for travelers from countries endemic to MPox to seek health care if ill and to alert health officials before their travel for clinical guidance,” the department said.
“Individuals, families and communities are urged to support anyone experiencing MPOX-like symptoms to report to their nearest healthcare facilities without delay for screening and diagnosis, rather than self-diagnosis and use of over-the-counter medications. Anyone can contract MPOX, regardless of age, gender, sexual orientation and race. Mpox is preventable and manageable, and treatment is available for both mild and severe cases. People at high risk include those living with chronic conditions such as HIV, tuberculosis and diabetes.”
Compiled by Justine Fortuin
Bloemfontein Courant
www.bloemfonteincourant.co.za
