Mpox death toll rises: What to know about this viral infection
Mpox, formerly known as monkeypox, is a viral infection transmitted through close contact.
Mpox (previously monkeypox) virus particles, illustration. Picture: Science Photo Library via AFP
Health Minister Joe Phaahla has confirmed that a second person has died from mpox, less than 24 hours after the country's first death from the virus was reported.
The two men, aged 37 and 38, were confirmed to have died as a result of the virus.
Phaahla stated that six cases have been recorded in the country this year – two in Gauteng and four in KwaZulu-Natal.
Mpox, formerly known as monkeypox, is a viral infection transmitted through close contact.
The World Health Organization (WHO) outlines the ways of transmission:
- Face-to-face contact (talking or breathing)
- Skin-to-skin contact (touching or vaginal/anal sex)
- Mouth-to-mouth contact (kissing)
- Mouth-to-skin contact (oral sex or kissing the skin)
- Respiratory droplets or short-range aerosols from prolonged close contact
Common symptoms of mpox include:
- Rash
- Fever
- Sore throat
- Headache
- Muscle aches
- Back pain
- Low energy
- Swollen lymph nodes
Mpox symptoms typically begin within a week but can start one to 21 days after exposure.
The symptoms usually last two to four weeks but may persist longer in individuals with weakened immune systems.
If you are showing symptoms, the WHO recommends the following measures:
- Stay home and, if possible, in your own room.
- Wash hands often with soap and water or use hand sanitiser, especially before or after touching sores.
- Wear a mask and cover lesions when around other people until your rash heals.
- Keep skin dry and uncovered (unless you are in a room with someone else).
- Avoid touching items in shared spaces.
- Disinfect shared spaces frequently.