Health Department
By Mpho Moloi
The Health Department has given the assurance that the Mpox outbreak is under control, despite three new cases being confirmed in Ekurhuleni, Gauteng. This has increased cases from 25 to 28. Three deaths have been recorded since the outbreak was confirmed in May last year. The department’s spokesperson Foster Mohale says they are able to treat patients with the limited medication stock that they have. “…Because Mpox – we call it a self-limiting disease, meaning that one can even recover without getting this Mpox-specific treatment. So this specific treatment, called tecovirimat is only for those who experience serious health complications. You would remember last year we experienced about 25 cases, so not more than seven people needed that Mpox-specific treatment because we also use other treatments for diseases like your chicken pox, smallpox to treat Mpox because the symptoms are the same. But that doesn’t mean people should lower their guard.”
The recent confirmation of three new Mpox cases in Ekurhuleni, Gauteng, has raised concerns among residents and health officials alike. These cases have increased the total number of infections in South Africa from 25 to 28 since the outbreak was first identified in May of the previous year. Notably, three fatalities have been recorded during this period.
Health Department’s Response
Foster Mohale, spokesperson for the Health Department, has sought to reassure the public regarding the current situation. He emphasized that Mpox is generally a self-limiting disease, meaning individuals can often recover without the need for specific antiviral treatments. Mohale stated, “We refer to Mpox as a self-limiting disease, indicating that recovery is possible even without Mpox-specific treatment.”
The antiviral medication tecovirimat is reserved for patients experiencing severe health complications. Mohale elaborated, “This specific treatment, called tecovirimat, is only for those who experience serious health complications.”
During the previous year’s cases, fewer than seven individuals required Mpox-specific treatment, as other treatments used for diseases like chickenpox and smallpox were also effective in managing Mpox symptoms. However, Mohale cautioned against complacency, urging the public to remain vigilant despite the availability of treatments. He emphasized that the similarity in symptoms between Mpox and other poxviruses allows for the use of existing treatments, but this should not lead to a lowered guard among the populace.
Understanding Mpox
Mpox, formerly known as monkeypox, is a viral disease characterized by symptoms such as fever, headache, muscle aches, and a distinctive rash. The disease is primarily transmitted through close contact with an infected person or animal, or with material contaminated with the virus. While Mpox is generally self-limiting, meaning most individuals recover without specific treatment, severe cases can occur, necessitating antiviral interventions. 
Treatment Protocols
Tecovirimat, marketed under the brand name TPOXX, is an antiviral medication approved for the treatment of orthopoxvirus infections, including smallpox and Mpox. Its use for Mpox is considered investigational, and it is typically reserved for severe cases or those at high risk of severe disease. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), initial analyses from two randomized clinical studies indicated that while tecovirimat is safe, it did not significantly reduce the time to resolution of Mpox lesions.  
Global Context
The Mpox outbreak is not confined to South Africa. Globally, there have been reports of varying efficacy of tecovirimat in treating Mpox. For instance, a study conducted in the Democratic Republic of the Congo found that tecovirimat did not reduce the duration of Mpox lesions among children and adults with clade I Mpox. However, the study noted a lower overall mortality rate among those treated, suggesting that supportive care plays a crucial role in patient outcomes.  
Public Health Recommendations
In light of the new cases, the Health Department advises the public to remain vigilant and adhere to preventive measures to curb the spread of Mpox. These measures include:
• Avoiding Close Contact: Refrain from physical contact with individuals who have symptoms consistent with Mpox, such as unexplained rashes or lesions.
• Practicing Good Hygiene: Regular handwashing with soap and water or using alcohol-based hand sanitizers can reduce the risk of transmission.
• Seeking Medical Attention: Individuals exhibiting symptoms suggestive of Mpox should promptly seek medical evaluation for appropriate diagnosis and management.
🔴 Central News Special Edition | Issue 94 🔴 Download the Latest Print and E-Edition | Headline: “I am a proud International criminal,
Malema Fires back at Musk and Trump”
Download Here:
Direct PDF Link:
https://centralnews.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2025/02/Central-News-Issue-094.pdf
Read all our publications on magzter:
https://www.magzter.com/ZA/Central-News-Pty-Ltd/Central-News/Newspaper/All-Issues
Central News also offers Sponsored Editorial Content, Podcasts , Radio / Social Media Simulcast, Video Production , Live Streaming Services, Press Conferences, and Paid Interviews (Video/Audio) etc.
We guarantee exceptional exposure, reach, and engagement, with an excellent return on investment.
Advertisement:
To place your advert on our platforms (Print Newspaper or Digital Platforms) : Please email : sales@centralnews.co.za
For Business Related:
business@centralnews.co.za
Newsroom:
Send your Stories / Media Statements To: newsroom@centralnews.co.za
General Info:
info@centralnews.co.za
Office Administrator:
admin@centralnews.co.za
Whatsapp / Call: 081 495 5487
Website: https://www.centralnews.co.za
Social Media Platforms (@centralnewsza) : Linkedin, Facebook, Tiktok, Twitter, Instagram, Youtube