SOUTH AFRICA – In recent weeks, South Africa has been encountering the emergence of a new viral threat, Mpox, previously known as the Monkeypox virus. This has raised alarms among health authorities and sparked efforts to contain its spread. As the outbreak unfolds, concerns mount about its potential impact not only within South Africa but also on a global scale.
The Mpox virus, previously unknown to science, is believed to have originated from zoonotic transmission, possibly from wildlife or domestic animals. The virus is thought to spread through respiratory droplets and close contact with infected individuals. Its exact origins and hosts are still under investigation.
A new case of Mpox has been recorded. The patient is a 39-year-old male who was admitted to Addington Hospital in Durban, KwaZulu-Natal, without a travel history to countries and regions currently experiencing the disease outbreak. A second case of the Mpox virus involves a 35-year-old male from Gauteng. He tested positive on 9 May 2024, where the initial symptoms resembled common respiratory infections. However, as the outbreak progressed, distinct clinical features began to emerge, distinguishing Mpox from other known viruses.
The Mpox virus exhibits a rapid transmission rate, facilitated by close human-to-human contact. Early symptoms include fever, cough, and fatigue, which can progress to severe respiratory distress and pneumonia in some cases. Unlike other respiratory viruses, Mpox may also present with gastrointestinal symptoms, further complicating diagnosis and treatment.
Department of Health spokesperson Foster Mohale urged members of the public who experience suspected symptoms of Mpox disease to visit their nearest healthcare provider for screening. “We also need to test to ensure early diagnosis and effective treatment to prevent further spread of the disease,” he said.
Despite these efforts, several challenges continue in controlling the Mpox outbreak. Limited healthcare infrastructure in rural areas has strained the capacity to provide adequate care to affected communities. Misinformation and vaccine hesitancy have also hindered vaccination campaigns, prolonging the outbreak’s duration. The emergence of the virus serves as a stark reminder of the ongoing threat posed by emerging infectious diseases. Swift and coordinated action is crucial to contain the outbreak and prevent its further spread.
