South Africa has so far recorded 22 cases of monkeypox (Mpox), including three deaths, the health ministry said on Friday.
Ministry spokesman Foster Mohale, however, acknowledged that the actual number of cases might be higher than 22 because the outbreak is spreading in communities. This view is shared by leading infectious disease experts, who warn that the current statistics likely underestimate the true number of cases.
Dr Jantjie Taljaard, an infectious diseases specialist at Tygerberg Hospital and a professor at Stellenbosch University, explained that the diagnosed cases only reflect the most severe cases requiring medical attention. He said, “Most people with Mpox do not seek medical attention, preventing them from being diagnosed.”
Mr Taljaard also pointed out that most elderly people vaccinated once morest Covid-19 would have immunity to monkeypox. “Mpox does not usually cause pneumonia, requiring oxygen therapy or an intensive care unit, unlike Covid,” he explained.
He mentioned that vaccine supplies are limited globally, and some countries have stockpiled large quantities out of fear that monkeypox might be used as a biological weapon.
In its latest report on Mpox, the World Health Organization (WHO) found that the risk to human health among the general public remained low. However, it cautioned that “There is potential for increased health impact if wider dissemination among vulnerable groups in South Africa and neighbouring countries continues.”
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Monkeypox in South Africa: A Closer Look at the Outbreak
As of Friday, the South African health ministry has reported 22 confirmed cases of monkeypox (Mpox) with three fatalities. Despite the official count, leading infectious disease experts believe the true number of cases is significantly higher, as many individuals with mild symptoms may not seek medical attention, thus remaining undiagnosed.
Understanding the Situation
Dr. Jantjie Taljaard, an infectious diseases specialist at Tygerberg Hospital and a professor at Stellenbosch University, sheds light on the underestimation of cases. He explains that the reported figures only reflect the most severe cases requiring hospitalization. A majority of individuals experiencing monkeypox symptoms often manage their ailments at home, without seeking formal medical diagnosis.
Dr. Taljaard further highlights that the widespread vaccination once morest Covid-19 across the elderly population has likely conferred immunity to monkeypox, as the virus is not typically associated with severe complications like pneumonia or the need for intensive care, unlike Covid-19.
Global Vaccine Availability
The global supply of monkeypox vaccines is limited, with some countries stockpiling large quantities due to concerns regarding its potential for use as a biological weapon. This limited availability poses a challenge in containing the spread of the virus.
WHO’s Assessment
The World Health Organisation (WHO) in its latest report on Mpox maintains the risk to the general public remains relatively low. However, it acknowledges a potential for increased health impact if the virus continues to spread widely among vulnerable groups in South Africa and nearby countries.
Exploring Transmission and Symptoms
Monkeypox spreads through close contact with an infected person or animal, primarily through direct contact with lesions or bodily fluids. Symptoms can include fever, headache, muscle aches, swollen lymph nodes, and a rash that evolves from flat spots to blisters before scabbing over.
Key Considerations for Public Health
While monkeypox is not classified as a sexually transmitted infection, close physical contact, including during sexual activity, can facilitate transmission. It’s crucial to have open conversations regarding safe practices to mitigate the risk of infection.
Protecting Yourself and Others
The following practices can help reduce the risk of contracting and spreading monkeypox:
- Avoid close contact with individuals exhibiting monkeypox symptoms.
- Practice good hygiene by washing hands frequently with soap and water or using alcohol-based hand sanitizer.
- Limit skin-to-skin contact with unfamiliar individuals.
- If you notice symptoms of monkeypox, seek prompt medical attention.
Looking Ahead: Collaborative Response
The spread of monkeypox in South Africa underscores the importance of collaborative efforts to understand the outbreak, implement effective control measures, and ensure access to appropriate healthcare for affected individuals. Public health officials, researchers, and healthcare providers need to work together to address this emerging health challenge.
