Monkeypox case reported in South Africa, first time since 2022

SOUTH AFRICA – South Africa has reportedly recorded its first case of monkeypox since August, 2022.

Prevention of infection hinges on the isolation of those who had the disease, until they were fully recovered, Caxton network news reported on Wednesday.

The Department of Health reportedly had confirmed a case of monkeypox (Mpox) in South Africa.

According to Health Minister, Joe Phaahla, the laboratory-confirmed case was a 35-year-old man from Gauteng.

He reportedly tested positive on Wednesday.

The case was first tested by Lancet Laboratory and the positive result was confirmed by the National Institute for Communicable Diseases.

The Department of Health was notified immediately.

According to the department, Mpox was a rare viral infectious disease in humans caused by the monkeypox virus (MPXV).

Although the virus was not highly transmissible from person to person, it has increased in global public health significance and can cause a painful rash, enlarged lymph nodes and fever.

According to the department, most people fully recover, but some get very sick.

The preliminary investigation and case findings report showed that the patient had not recently travelled to countries experiencing an outbreak of the disease.

“Both the National and Gauteng Departments of Health have been actively involved and are managing the situation as per protocol and national guidelines.

“Contact tracing [is] continuing [to identify] any additional linked cases of Mpox in South Africa,” the department said.

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