By Phenyo Selinda
The South African Department of Health has reassured the public that the current Mpox outbreak in the country is under control, but cautions against complacency. As the nation faces this health challenge, the department emphasised the importance of ongoing vigilance and adherence to preventive measures.
Mpox, formerly known as monkeypox, has become a significant global concern, particularly with the recent declaration by the World Health Organisation (WHO) of Mpox as a Public Health Emergency of International Concern (PHEIC). The outbreak, which originated in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), has seen a rise in cases driven by a new strain, known as Clade 1b, spreading across various African countries, including South Africa’s neighbouring nations .
Current Situation in South Africa
As of 18 August 2024, South Africa has recorded a total of 24 Mpox cases, with three fatalities. The cases are predominantly concentrated in Gauteng (12 cases), KwaZulu-Natal (11 cases), and a single case in the Western Cape. Out of these, 19 patients have recovered, while two are currently in home isolation. The Health Department remains on high alert, closely monitoring the situation and collaborating with international bodies such as the WHO and Africa CDC .
In response to the outbreak, the South African government has intensified epidemiological surveillance, contact tracing, and health screening activities, particularly at border posts. These efforts are aimed at early detection and containment of new cases, thereby preventing further spread within the country .
Vaccination and Treatment Efforts
The Department of Health has been actively exploring pharmaceutical interventions, including the possible introduction of additional treatments and vaccines, though these efforts are contingent on the availability of vaccines and epidemiological data. South Africa has faced challenges in sourcing Mpox vaccines, largely due to global vaccine inequity, with wealthier nations securing the majority of available doses. The department has indicated that once vaccines become available, priority will be given to high-risk groups, including men who have sex with men, sex workers, and healthcare workers .
Public Advisory and Preventive Measures
The Health Department has urged all citizens to maintain nonpharmaceutical preventive measures, such as personal hygiene, to curb the spread of the virus. Travellers exhibiting Mpox-like symptoms are advised to seek immediate medical attention and to postpone travel plans until they have fully recovered to avoid cross-border transmission.
Mpox symptoms include fever, headaches, muscle aches, back pain, low energy, and a characteristic rash that can last up to four weeks. The rash, which can be painful, often resembles blisters or sores and typically appears on the face, hands, feet, and groin areas. The department also stressed that Mpox can affect anyone, regardless of age, gender, sexual orientation, or race, though current data indicates that people living with HIV and men who have sex with men (MSM) are particularly vulnerable .
Global Context and Concerns
The global Mpox outbreak continues to spread, with Clade 1b, a new and potentially more dangerous variant, being a major driver of cases across several African countries. The WHO’s declaration of a PHEIC has underscored the need for international cooperation and the fast-tracking of vaccine approval and distribution to prevent a repeat of the COVID-19 vaccine inequities. Experts warn that without equitable vaccine distribution, the Mpox outbreak could have dire consequences, particularly for vulnerable populations in Africa .
The Department of Health has committed to keeping the public informed about any new developments and response measures as they continue to unfold. In the meantime, businesses and organisations operating in affected provinces are encouraged to ensure their employees are well-informed and to implement necessary health protocols to safeguard against the spread of Mpox
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