The Department of Health in South Africa is calling on the public to remain vigilant after new Mpox cases have been confirmed in Ekurhuleni, a region to the east of Johannesburg. These new Mpox cases bring the total number of confirmed infections in the country to 31 since the outbreak began in May 2024.
Six of these cases were reported in 2025, underscoring the persistence of the virus within local communities. This uptick in new Mpox cases suggests ongoing local transmission, especially since none of the affected individuals have recently traveled to outbreak areas.
New Mpox Cases Detected in Ekurhuleni
The latest new Mpox cases involve a 38-year-old man who presented with symptoms consistent with the virus, as well as two close contacts—a 14-year-old boy and a 33-year-old woman. These infections further emphasize that the virus continues to spread locally, with the Department of Health stressing the importance of ongoing vigilance to control its transmission.
What makes these new Mpox cases particularly noteworthy is the absence of travel history among the patients. The fact that none of them have visited countries with confirmed outbreaks indicates that the virus is being transmitted locally within South Africa. This highlights the importance of remaining alert to potential risks and being prepared to act swiftly if symptoms arise.
Mpox Symptoms and Health Risks
Mpox is typically mild, with a low fatality rate, but it is still a concern due to the uncomfortable symptoms it can cause. These symptoms include a rash, fever, headaches, and swollen lymph nodes, which can often be mistaken for other common illnesses. Health authorities are urging the public to be aware of these symptoms, particularly in light of the new Mpox cases reported in Ekurhuleni.
Although the fatality rate of Mpox is low, the disease is contagious, and its symptoms can cause significant discomfort. This makes early detection essential in preventing further spread. Healthcare professionals have also emphasized that anyone who develops symptoms of Mpox should seek medical advice and report their symptoms to a healthcare facility as soon as possible. New Mpox cases should always be followed by a period of isolation to limit exposure to others.
Learn More: What is Mpox? Symptoms, Transmission, and Preventive Measures
Response and Measures for Contact Tracing
In response to the new Mpox cases, the Department of Health has deployed outbreak response teams to conduct contact tracing and investigate the circumstances surrounding the infections. These teams will identify anyone who may have been in close contact with the patients and ensure that they are monitored for symptoms of Mpox. This proactive approach is key to containing the spread of the virus and preventing a larger outbreak.
The affected individuals are currently self-isolating and receiving appropriate care. The public is urged to stay alert and take precautions to avoid potential exposure to the virus, especially in light of the recent new Mpox cases in the area. Early detection and isolation are vital steps in reducing the transmission of the virus.
Herpes Simplex Virus Co-Infection in New Mpox Cases
An interesting aspect of the new Mpox cases is the co-infection of all three patients with the herpes simplex virus (HSV). HSV causes painful blisters, and it is commonly transmitted through skin-to-skin contact, including during unprotected sex. The presence of HSV alongside Mpox in the same patients raises further concerns about the possibility of both viruses spreading together through intimate contact.
Health authorities are investigating whether there is any connection between the two viruses and whether one may facilitate the transmission of the other. Regardless, the presence of HSV in these individuals highlights the importance of practicing safe sexual health and being mindful of the risks associated with close contact, especially in light of the new Mpox cases.
Public Awareness and Precautionary Measures
The Department of Health has emphasized that while the overall risk of widespread transmission remains low, public vigilance is crucial in preventing further infections. The rise in new Mpox cases serves as a reminder that everyone must be aware of the symptoms and take appropriate precautions. If you develop any symptoms of Mpox, such as a rash, fever, or swollen glands, it is essential to seek medical attention without delay. This is particularly important if you have been in contact with anyone who has recently been diagnosed with Mpox.
Healthcare professionals advise individuals to avoid unnecessary physical contact with those who have symptoms of Mpox until they are cleared by a doctor. Those who experience any signs of the disease should be isolated to minimize the risk of spreading the virus to others.
Staying Alert Amid New Mpox Cases
As the number of new Mpox cases continues to rise in South Africa, the Department of Health stresses the importance of staying informed and taking action at the earliest sign of symptoms. While Mpox generally poses a low fatality risk, it remains contagious, and preventing its spread requires early detection, isolation, and contact tracing. The public is urged to stay alert to the symptoms of Mpox and seek medical help if necessary.
With new Mpox cases emerging in Gauteng and across the country, staying vigilant and following recommended health guidelines is essential for preventing further outbreaks. Through collective awareness and prompt action, South Africa can limit the spread of this virus and protect public health.
Related: Hand, Foot, and Mouth Disease: Symptoms, Prevention & Treatment
