South Africa: Health Department Urges Vigilance As Mpox Cases Rise

South Africa has experienced a surge in mpox cases, with 18 confirmed infections and one probable case, according to EWN. The Western Cape leads with 15 confirmed cases, followed by Gauteng with three and KwaZulu-Natal with one. Between 13 August and 17 September, investigators recorded 13 cases, suggesting rapid local transmission.

The Health Department has advised individuals experiencing symptoms, especially those who have had close contact with confirmed cases, to seek medical care and limit close contact with others. Symptoms include fever, headache, muscle aches, fatigue and skin rashes or lesions. In a separate development, two men accused of murdering former boxing champion Zolani Tete in Mdantsane are set to appear in court.

The case has been delayed as new evidence regarding the ballistic report on the firearm and ammunition used in the killing has been presented. A 22-year-old is believed to be the mastermind, while an alleged middleman is also involved. Tete was killed outside his residence three weeks ago. Police are investigating nine other murders in Ekurhuleni, with only one suspect currently in custody.

Deputy National Police Commissioner Tebello Mosikili stated that the suspect is not South African, though his nationality has not been determined. Authorities have formed a dedicated team to investigate the killings and are utilizing Home Affairs' biometric records to identify five of the unidentified victims. Police also suspect additional victims may be linked and are investigating another person of interest.

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