In South Africa, a man has succumbed to the deadly virus known as Mpox, previously known as monkeypox. This marks the first confirmed death in the country from the viral infection that is transmitted through close contact. The 37-year-old man was hospitalized in Gauteng province and passed away after being infected with the virus.
The health minister of South Africa, Joe Phaahla, revealed that all five cases reported in the country this year were severe and required hospitalization. These patients were men aged between 30 and 39 who had not traveled to countries experiencing outbreaks. Initial symptoms of Mpox include fever, headaches, swellings, back pain, and aching muscles that can eventually develop into a rash. Despite the World Health Organization declaring a public health emergency over an Mpox outbreak in 2022, low levels of cases are still being reported in some countries.
The five diagnosed patients in South Africa had pre-existing immune deficiencies and had contracted the disease since May. Two patients have been discharged from the hospital, while two others remain hospitalized. Those who came into contact with the deceased individual will be monitored for 21 days to prevent further transmission of the virus. Mpox was first reported in humans in the Democratic Republic of Congo in 1970 and remains endemic there according to the WHO. It is important to seek medical attention for suspected symptoms and help trace contacts to prevent further spread of the virus.
