16 Infections Confirmed Health Officials Monitor Situation

Mpox Cases Rise in South Africa, Prompting Concern

16 Infections Confirmed, Health Officials Monitor Situation

The number of laboratory-confirmed mpox cases in South Africa has climbed to 16 since the outbreak of the disease in the country, raising concerns among health officials.

The Department of Health confirmed that the country has recorded three more cases of mpox, bringing the total to 16. The International Health Regulations National Focal Point (IHR NFP) of South Africa notified the World Health Organization (WHO) of 20 confirmed mpox (monkeypox) cases.

The rapid spread of mpox in African countries has led to the WHO classifying it as a "global health emergency of international concern." The virus is primarily transmitted through close contact, including direct skin-to-skin contact or contact with contaminated materials.

In South Africa, Minister of Health Joe Phaahla has acknowledged the outbreak and emphasized the government's efforts to curb the spread of the disease. Public awareness campaigns and intensive contact tracing efforts are underway to identify and isolate infected individuals.

Health officials continue to monitor the situation closely and urge the public to take precautions to prevent infection. Maintaining good hygiene practices, avoiding close contact with infected individuals, and seeking medical attention if symptoms develop are essential for controlling the outbreak.