Lauren Isaacs18 June 2024 | 7:25

Health Dept continuing with surveillance, contact tracing amid Mpox outbreak

The department said the latest confirmed case was a 39-year-old male patient, who was admitted to a private health facility in Cape Town.

Health Dept continuing with surveillance, contact tracing amid Mpox outbreak

Mpox (previously monkeypox) virus particles, illustration.

JOHANNESBURG - The Health Department says it's continuing surveillance, contact tracing and health education activities across the country, amid a monkeypox (Mpox) outbreak.

The total number of positive cases in the country currently stands at seven, with the Western Cape having recorded its first case.

The department said the latest confirmed case was a 39-year-old male patient, who was admitted to a private health facility in Cape Town.

Health Department spokesperson Foster Mohale: "We've noted that almost all cases or patients are living with chronic illnesses such as HIV and this suggests a higher probability of immuno-compromised unless the patients are adhering to prescribed treatment."