Health Dept urges vigilance after 3 new mpox cases confirmed in Ekurhuleni
The latest infections include a 38-year-old man who presented with symptoms and two close contacts, a 14-year-old boy and a 33-year-old woman.
FILE: Mpox virus particles, illustration. Picture: SERGII IAREMENKO/SCIENCE PHOTO L / SIA / Science Photo Library via AFP
JOHANNESBURG - The Department of Health urges the public to stay alert after three new cases of Mpox were confirmed in Ekurhuleni, east of Johannesburg.
The latest infections include a 38-year-old man who presented with symptoms and two close contacts, a 14-year-old boy and a 33-year-old woman.
The department said none of the patients have recent travel history to outbreak areas, pointing to local transmission in the country.
The new cases bring the total number of Mpox infections to 31 since the outbreak began in May 2024, including six reported in 2025.
The patients are self-isolating and receiving care, while outbreak response teams have been deployed for contact tracing and case investigation.
Mpox is typically mild with a low fatality rate, but symptoms can include a rash, fever, headaches, and swollen glands.
Health officials said early detection and prompt management are key to preventing further spread.
“The risk of wider transmission remains low in South Africa. However, people who experience Mpox symptoms - with or without contact with known cases - are urged to present themselves at the nearest healthcare facility without delay,” said spokesperson Foster Mohale.
Meanwhile, all three new patients also tested positive for herpes simplex virus, which causes painful blisters and can spread through skin-to-skin contact, including unprotected sex.