DURBAN — South Africa has recorded its second laboratory-confirmed case of mpox disease, prompting the Department of Health to call for heightened vigilance and testing among the public for early diagnosis and treatment. The recent patient is a 39-year-old male admitted to Addington Hospital in Durban, KwaZulu-Natal, who had not traveled to any regions currently experiencing an outbreak of the disease.
According to South African Government New Agency, the first case was reported in Gauteng on May 9, 2024, involving a 35-year-old man. In response to the new case, health officials, in collaboration with the province and the National Institute for Communicable Diseases (NICD), have initiated extensive contact tracing efforts to assess individuals who were in contact with the patient and prevent further spread of the virus. This process also aims to determine any potential connection between the two confirmed cases. Globally, the World Health Organization reported a total of 466 laboratory-confirmed mpox cases and three deaths across 22 countries as of March 2024, indicating ongoing low-level transmission worldwide.
The department highlighted the challenges posed by stigma and discrimination, which can deter individuals from seeking necessary medical attention, thereby undermining public health responses. It emphasized the importance of community support for those diagnosed with mpox and encouraged those exhibiting symptoms to seek screening and testing.
Simultaneously, South Africa is navigating its annual influenza season, which began in late April 2024. The current season is marked by the circulation of several flu strains, including the swine flu, which have been contributing to severe health complications in some cases. Despite similarities in symptoms, these flu cases should not be confused with the less severe and transmissible COVID-19 variant also present. The NICD has observed a rapid increase in flu cases and positivity rates, although the overall impact remains moderate.
Public health officials continue to advocate for preventive measures, including vaccination, especially for high-risk groups such as pregnant women, individuals living with HIV, and those with chronic conditions. Vaccinations are available at public health clinics and through private healthcare providers to mitigate the spread of influenza and protect vulnerable populations.