South Africa’s Mpox outbreak has claimed another life, bringing the total number of fatalities to three, the Department of Health confirmed on Tuesday.
The latest victim, a 40-year-old man from Ladysmith, KwaZulu-Natal, tragically passed away at home after experiencing Mpox symptoms, including a full-body rash. He reportedly never sought medical attention.
“Public health officials were notified after his death, and subsequent testing confirmed Mpox,” said Department spokesperson Foster Mohale.
Three new cases were also identified, raising the national total to 16 since the outbreak began in May. All confirmed cases involve males aged 23 to 43. KwaZulu-Natal leads with eight infections, followed by Gauteng with seven, and the Western Cape with one.
The newly diagnosed individuals include a 43-year-old man from Johannesburg diagnosed at a private facility and a 29-year-old man from Mamelodi diagnosed at a public health clinic. Both exhibited Mpox symptoms and had no recent international travel history.
Mpox, formerly known as monkeypox, is a viral illness transmissible through close contact. While the Department assures there will be no travel restrictions or lockdowns due to the outbreak, they urge anyone experiencing symptoms to visit a healthcare facility.
“Early diagnosis and treatment are crucial,” Mohale emphasized, highlighting that Mpox is preventable and treatable, with options available for both mild and severe cases.
The Department is particularly concerned about individuals with underlying health conditions like HIV, TB, and diabetes, who may be at higher risk.
Public education efforts are also underway, with the Department collaborating with funeral parlors to ensure proper handling of remains from suspected or confirmed Mpox cases.
