South Africa has reported six new laboratory-confirmed cases of Mpox bringing the total to 13 from the initial case recorded last month.
The Department of Health confirmed new cases from Gauteng and the Western Cape. As for the number of fatalities, it remains at two.
Monkeypox, which is also called Mpox, was first identified in South Africa on the 9th of May 2024, where a 35-year-old man from Gauteng province, tested positive for the virus.
According to the latest statement from the department, the Mpox-specific treatment such as Tecovirimat, widely referred to as TPOXX or ST-246, has been dispatched for administering to patients who develop severe health effects as a result of contracting Mpox disease.
“The process to secure more treatment, including vaccines, is underway in case the need arises. However, all mild cases will continue to be managed with supportive treatment used to manage complications like fever, pneumonia and skin infections,” the department stated.
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The government has been appealing to people regardless of their gender, age or sexual orientation that anybody can get mpox by presenting at any health facility if they develop signs and symptoms associated with mpox or had body contact with other people with similar symptoms.
The department explained that proper washing of the hands is among the most effective ways by which people can avoid getting sick and prevent spreading diseases.
“People are reminded to always wash their hands with soap and water, or use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer, especially before eating or touching your face, and after you use the bathroom.”
The symptoms of Mpox include a rash that may take two to four weeks, fever, headache, muscle aches, low energy, back pain, and swollen glands.
“The painful rash looks like blisters or sores, and can affect the face, palms of the hands, soles of the feet, groin, and so on.”
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