The Department of Health has confirmed that local transmission of mpox (previously known as monkeypox) is ongoing in Gauteng, as three new cases have been reported in Ekurhuleni. Health officials are urging the public to remain vigilant as the number of cases continues to climb.
ALSO READ: What is Mpox? Symptoms, Transmission, and Preventive Measures
Three New Mpox Cases Detected in Ekurhuleni
The latest mpox cases include:
- A 38-year-old man who presented at a healthcare facility with symptoms of mpox.
- A 14-year-old boy and a 33-year-old woman, both of whom had close contact with the first patient.
Notably, none of the patients had recently traveled to countries experiencing an outbreak, indicating that the virus is spreading locally within Gauteng. This raises concerns about ongoing community transmission and the need for enhanced public awareness and preventive measures.
Health Officials Urge Rapid Contact Tracing
Department of Health spokesperson Foster Mohale emphasized that the presence of locally transmitted cases underscores the urgency of rapid contact tracing and case management to curb further spread.
“This also highlights the necessity of rapid and well-coordinated contact tracing for early detection and effective management of positive cases,” Mohale said.
To date, South Africa has reported a total of 31 confirmed mpox cases since the outbreak in May 2024, including six cases recorded in 2025. The affected patients are currently self-isolating and receiving appropriate clinical care.
Mpox Symptoms and Risks
Mpox is generally a mild and self-limiting viral infection with a low fatality rate. However, it can cause significant discomfort and health complications, particularly for individuals with weakened immune systems.
Common Symptoms of Mpox:
- Skin rash that lasts between 2 – 4 weeks
- Fever
- Headache
- Muscle aches
- Back pain
- Low energy
- Swollen lymph nodes
The virus spreads through close skin-to-skin contact, contaminated materials, and respiratory droplets from infected individuals. Anyone, regardless of age, gender, sexual orientation, or race, can contract mpox if exposed.
Mpox and Herpes Simplex Virus (HSV) Coinfection
Health officials have also confirmed that all three new mpox patients tested positive for herpes simplex virus (HSV), a common but often overlooked infection.
HSV is a viral infection that causes painful blisters or ulcers and primarily spreads through:
- Skin-to-skin contact (including kissing)
- Unprotected sexual activity
Although HSV is generally asymptomatic and treatable, it is not curable. The Department of Health has reiterated that the correct and consistent use of condoms remains the best protection against genital herpes and other sexually transmitted infections (STIs).
Gauteng’s Response to the Mpox Outbreak
To manage the ongoing outbreak, the Department of Health has activated outbreak response teams in Gauteng. These teams are focused on:
- Contact tracing of infected individuals
- Case investigations in affected areas
- Providing clinical support to patients in self-isolation
Despite the rising number of cases, health authorities maintain that the overall risk of wider transmission remains low in South Africa. However, they continue to urge heightened public awareness and early medical intervention for anyone displaying symptoms.
Previous Mpox Cases in Gauteng
Earlier this month, the health department announced three other confirmed mpox cases in Ekurhuleni. These included:
- A 30-year-old man who had recently traveled to Kampala, Uganda
- A 30-year-old man and a 27-year-old woman, identified through contact tracing
The repeated detection of cases within the same municipality highlights the persistent presence of mpox in local communities.
Public Advisory: Stay Alert and Seek Medical Help
The Department of Health is urging the public to:
✔️ Be aware of mpox symptoms and seek medical attention if they develop a rash, fever, or other signs of infection.
✔️ Practice good hygiene and avoid close contact with individuals showing symptoms.
✔️ Use protection during sexual activity to reduce the risk of mpox and other infections like HSV.
As South Africa continues to monitor and manage the outbreak, early detection and timely intervention remain crucial in preventing the further spread of mpox in Gauteng.
Stay informed. Stay safe. Seek medical help if needed.
