Twenty probable Mpox cases have been detected in Gauteng. According to the National Institute of Communicable Diseases, the department is awaiting laboratory test results.
Tebogo Matjokotja of the NICD told Newsroom Afrika that tests are still being undertaken.
She stated that tests are being undertaken at the National Health Laboratory Service (NHLS) and would be confirmed by the NICD, as directed by Department of Health Minister Dr Joe Phaahla.
Last week, the department announced that the country’s cases had risen to 13, with seven verified in KwaZulu-Natal, five in Gauteng, and one in the Western Cape. There were two verified deaths.
Dr Richard Lessells, an infectious disease specialist at the University of KwaZulu-Natal, says the severity of the condition varies by patient.
Lessels stated that SA has experienced more serious cases. He told Newzroom Afrika that when people have a good immune system, the sickness is usually moderate. Lessels stated that most people feel sick for a short period of time and then the skin lesions heal or disappear; nevertheless, the sickness is different in persons with compromised immune systems or low CD4 counts.
Last Monday, the department received its first batch of Tecovirimat (also known as TPOXX or ST-246) for the treatment of patients suffering from serious health issues caused by Mpox illness.
“The process of obtaining additional therapy, including vaccine, 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,” according to the agency.
