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Western Cape health authorities are actively investigating contacts exposed to mpox following two gatherings in the province, where infected individuals came into close proximity with others. The alert follows 18 confirmed cases and one probable case of mpox in South Africa, with most infections recorded in Cape Town. According to Ednah Baloyi, a Western Cape health department official, two events led to the mpox cases.

Health teams are currently tracing those who attended the gatherings, testing potential exposures, and ensuring timely treatment for positive cases. The surge in cases over the past month has prompted health authorities to intensify efforts to prevent further infections. South Africa's cases primarily affect individuals aged 23 to 50, with symptoms including an unexplained rash, sores, skin lesions, fever, headaches, muscle aches, and tiredness.

The virus spreads through close physical contact with infected individuals, their skin lesions, scabs, or body fluids, as well as through items like bedding, clothing, and towels used by the infected person. Western Cape Health Chief Operating Officer Dr Saadiq Kariem advises those who suspect mpox to seek medical attention promptly rather than waiting for symptoms to worsen.

The Western Cape has secured limited supplies of the MVA-BN mpox vaccine and the antiviral treatment Tecovirimat, with distribution based on risk and potential exposure. Those who test positive are advised to isolate until their skin lesions heal.