By Trend News Line 2024-06-14 08:20:00.
Tragic Loss of Another Life
South Africa is reeling from the tragic news of a second death caused by the Mpox outbreak. The latest victim, a 38-year-old male patient from KwaZulu-Natal province, succumbed to the viral disease shortly after being admitted to the hospital. His test results confirmed an Mpox infection on the same day of his demise.
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Spread Among Men
Health officials have noted that the Mpox outbreak seems to be predominantly affecting men. However, efforts are being made to widen the net of contact tracing to identify individuals who may have come into contact with the victims. The National Health Department of SA has reported a total of six confirmed cases of Mpox in the country.
Concern Over Severity
Health Minister Joe Phaahla expressed deep concern over the severity of the Mpox cases identified so far this year. All six cases were classified as severe, requiring hospitalization. The patients, all men aged between 30 and 39, did not have any recent travel history to countries experiencing Mpox outbreaks, indicating that the disease may be spreading locally.
Mode of Transmission
Mpox, previously known as Monkeypox, is a viral disease that spreads through close contact. Symptoms typically start with flu-like manifestations such as fever, headache, muscle aches, and back pain, followed by the appearance of a rash. One confirmed case reported engaging in sexual activities with multiple partners of different genders, raising concerns about potential female infections.
Global Concern
The World Health Organization (WHO) declared a public health emergency in response to a significant Mpox outbreak in 2022. While the emergency phase has passed, some countries, including South Africa, are still grappling with new cases. The health minister emphasized the importance of early detection and treatment for Mpox, which can be managed effectively if identified promptly.
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Underlying Health Conditions
All six Mpox patients identified since May were found to have underlying immunodeficiencies. While two patients have recovered and been discharged, two others remain hospitalized. The health ministry is collaborating with organizations working on HIV programs and key populations to raise awareness about the outbreak and local transmission of the disease.
Preventive Measures
As a precautionary measure, individuals who had contact with the deceased patient are being monitored for 21 days, the standard incubation period for Mpox. The disease, caused by the monkeypox virus, transmits through close contact between individuals. South Africa is among the countries currently experiencing the Mpox outbreak, with efforts underway to contain the spread and protect public health.
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Mpox outbreak in South Africa affecting men
South Africa sees increase in Mpox cases among men.
