The Ministry of Health has announced the need for increased public vigilance after 18 confirmed and one probable case of Mpox were registered in South Africa.
The Ministry of Health confirmed that 18 confirmed cases of Mpox have been identified in South Africa, with the majority—15 cases—recorded in the Western Cape, particularly in the city of Cape Town. Three cases were also noted in Gauteng and one in KwaZulu-Natal.
The Department urged the population to remain vigilant amid the rapid increase in laboratory-confirmed Mpox cases across the country in recent weeks. Department representative Foster Mohale stated that as of September 17, 2026, there are 18 confirmed and one probable case registered in the country, necessitating immediate and continuous public cooperation to curb the spread.
Mohale noted that it is concerning that 13 of the total cases were recorded between August 13 and September 17, indicating rapid local transmission of this preventable viral infection.
Cases Predominantly Among Men
According to Mohale, all affected individuals are between the ages of 23 and 50, with a median age of 36.5 years. Furthermore, 18 of them are men, while only one is a woman. One recent case is linked to an individual who visited Spain at the beginning of this month and returned to South Africa on September 14.
This individual was tested in Spain after receiving information about a possible disease status. South African health authorities are contacting their Spanish counterparts regarding the laboratory test results of this person to confirm their Mpox status. Mohale clarified that Mpox cases can appear in any person who has had close contact with someone testing positive for the virus within the last few days, up to 21 days, and will be accompanied by similar symptoms.
He emphasized that the importance of continuous monitoring, early detection, and public cooperation cannot be underestimated to prevent further transmission.
Mpox Symptoms
Mpox is a viral disease that can affect anyone regardless of race, gender, sexual orientation, or socioeconomic status. The public was reminded of Mpox symptoms, which include fever, headache, muscle aches, back pain, fatigue, as well as a rash or skin lesions that may appear on the face, hands, feet, genitals, or other parts of the body.
Typically, skin lesions begin as flat red spots, then progress to bumps, followed by fluid-filled blisters, then pustular bumps, and finally turn into scabs. Symptoms usually appear within six to thirteen days after infection but can vary from five to 21 days. Therefore, anyone experiencing such symptoms, especially if they have had close contact with a confirmed or suspected case, should seek medical attention immediately and avoid close contact with others.
How Mpox Spreads
Mpox is primarily transmitted through close physical contact with an infected person, including skin-to-skin contact with a rash or lesions, as well as contact with contaminated materials such as bedding, clothing, or towels used by the infected person. People with Mpox can also transmit the virus through respiratory droplets during prolonged personal contact without covering coughs or sneezes.
Mohale stated that vigilance remains vital, especially in families, healthcare facilities, and among close social circles. He added that hand hygiene through frequent washing or the use of sanitizers is one of the effective ways to prevent the spread of the virus.
Government Response
It was reported that the government, with support from the World Health Organization, has secured limited doses of Mpox vaccines (Tecovirimat) as part of the outbreak response strategy to halt local transmission. Health authorities will determine where and how to use these vaccines to contain outbreaks. Vaccination must be accompanied by continuous adherence to preventive measures.
Furthermore, citizens were strongly advised to support individuals diagnosed with or suspected of having Mpox, as stigmatization and discrimination can undermine the outbreak response by discouraging people from seeking medical help.