The Department of Health has confirmed three new cases of Mpox, prompting heightened vigilance.

A 38-year-old man, a 33-year-old woman, and a 14-year-old boy recently tested positive for the disease. All the recent patients were detected in Ekurhuleni, in the Gauteng province.

These cases bring the total number of confirmed cases to 31 since the initial outbreak in May 2024. Six cases have been recorded this year alone.

READ MORE: DoH: no need for panic as 3 new mpox cases are reported

Health Department spokesperson, Foster Mohale, emphasised that these new cases indicate ongoing local transmission of the diseases, as none of the patients have recently travelled to regions with active Mpox outbreaks.

“This also highlights the necessity of rapid and well-coordinated contact tracing for early detection and effective management of positive cases,” Mohale said.

Mohale added that all three new patients also tested positive for the herpes simplex virus (HSV), a common virus transmitted through skin-to-skin contact. HSV can cause painful blisters and sores, and consistent use of condoms is recommended to prevent transmission.

“The virus is generally asymptomatic, treatable, but not curable. The symptoms include a rash which may last for 2 – 4 weeks, fever, headache, muscle aches, back pain, low energy and swollen glands,” added Mohale.

Meanwhile, all three individuals are currently self-isolating and receiving appropriate clinical care. The Department’s outbreak response teams are investigating the affected areas.

“The risk of wider transmission remains low in South Africa, but anyone can contract mpox regardless of age, gender, sexual orientation and race,” Mohale confirmed.

Mohale reiterated that Mpox is generally mild and self-limiting, with a low case fatality rate. The virus primarily spreads through close contact, but anyone, regardless of age, gender, or sexual orientation, can contract it.