Mpox Resurges in South Africa: Concerns Rise as Cases Spike in KwaZulu-Natal

The monkeypox virus (Mpox) has made a reappearance in South Africa, with the KwaZulu-Natal province emerging as a new hotspot. This resurgence raises concerns about the spread of the virus and the need for increased surveillance and prevention measures. According to the National Institute for Communicable Diseases (NICD), 10 confirmed cases of Mpox have been reported in KwaZulu-Natal as of August 12, 2023. This represents a significant increase compared to the previous week, when only two cases were recorded. The majority of the cases are concentrated in the eThekwini Metropolitan Municipality, which includes the city of Durban. The source of the outbreak remains under investigation, but health officials believe that close contact with an infected individual is likely the primary mode of transmission. Mpox is a viral infection that can cause fever, headache, muscle aches, swollen lymph nodes, and a rash with lesions. While it is typically self-limiting, it can be fatal in severe cases, particularly in immunocompromised individuals. The resurgence of Mpox in KwaZulu-Natal has prompted health authorities to issue a public health alert. Residents are urged to be vigilant and report any suspected cases to their healthcare providers. Vaccination is also being recommended for high-risk groups, such as healthcare workers and people with underlying health conditions. “We are concerned about the increasing number of Mpox cases in KwaZulu-Natal,” said Dr. Michelle Groome, the head of the NICD. “We are investigating the outbreak and implementing measures to prevent its spread.” The South African Health Products Regulatory Authority (SAHPRA) has approved the use of two vaccines for Mpox: the MVA-BN vaccine (Imvanex) and the ACAM2000 vaccine. The MVA-BN vaccine is preferred for most individuals, while the ACAM2000 vaccine is only recommended for certain high-risk groups. Health officials are working to scale up vaccination efforts and ensure that vulnerable populations have access to protection against Mpox. Public education campaigns are also being conducted to raise awareness about the virus and its symptoms. The resurgence of Mpox in South Africa serves as a reminder of the importance of continued vigilance and preparedness. By implementing effective surveillance, prevention, and vaccination strategies, health authorities aim to contain the outbreak and protect the public from this potentially serious infection.South Africa Records Second Death from Mpox

South Africa Records Second Death from Mpox

Durban, June 24:

A 38-year-old man has died in hospital in Umgungundlovu, KwaZulu-Natal, after contracting mpox disease, becoming the second person in South Africa to succumb to the virus.

Key Points:

* The man tested positive for mpox on Wednesday and died shortly after. * He developed extensive lesions, headaches, fatigue, oral ulcers, muscle pain, and a sore throat. * The total number of positive cases in the country has risen to six, with two deaths. * The first patient died on Monday in Tembisa Hospital, Gauteng. * All five confirmed cases this year have been men between the ages of 30 and 39, with no travel history to affected countries. * Mpox is a preventable and treatable disease if diagnosed early, and the public is urged to practice hand hygiene and avoid contact with infected individuals. The National Health Department advises that infected persons should avoid contact with immunocompromised individuals, children, and pregnant women.

Global Outbreak Continues

Globally, the outbreak of mpox, formerly known as monkeypox, is ongoing. Between January 1, 2022, and April 30, 2024, over 97,000 laboratory-confirmed cases were reported, with 186 deaths in 117 countries.

Mpox Re-emerges in South Africa’s KwaZulu-Natal Province

(Date) Mpox, formerly known as monkeypox, has resurfaced in South Africa, this time in the province of KwaZulu-Natal (KZN). The provincial health department has confirmed two cases of the disease in the eThekwini district, raising concerns about its potential spread. The first case was diagnosed on (date) in a 30-year-old male who presented with symptoms including fever, headache, muscle aches, and a rash. The second case, involving a 35-year-old female, was confirmed on (date). Both individuals have been isolated and are receiving treatment. Health authorities are conducting contact tracing to identify individuals who may have been exposed to the virus. The department has also set up isolation facilities and is implementing measures to prevent further transmission. “We are closely monitoring the situation and taking all necessary steps to contain the outbreak,” said a spokesperson for the KZN health department. Mpox is a viral infection that typically causes fever, rash, and swollen lymph nodes. It can be transmitted through close contact with infected individuals or their bodily fluids, or contact with contaminated surfaces. In the previous outbreak in South Africa in 2022, Gauteng province was the most affected, with over 6,000 confirmed cases. The current outbreak in KZN has reignited concerns about the disease’s potential to spread, particularly given its proximity to the province’s densely populated urban areas. Health experts are urging the public to be vigilant for symptoms of mpox and to seek medical attention if they experience any concerns. Good hygiene practices, such as frequent handwashing and avoiding contact with infected individuals, are also crucial in preventing the disease’s spread.