By Lehlohonolo Lehana.
The first case of Mpox (monkeypox) in the Western Cape has been recorded, bringing the total number of confirmed cases in South Africa to seven.
The latest case involves a 39-year-old male patient who was admitted on 28 May to a local private health facility in Cape Town. He tested positive for Mpox on Thursday in a private laboratory.
The man presented with extensive lesions, and he is renovascular disease (RVD) positive with unknown CD4.
Health Ministry spokesperson Foster Mohale said they have already started with contact tracing.
“The patient presented with extensive lesions, and he is RVD positive with unknown CD4.
“The department has noted that all cases/patients are living with chronic illness such as HIV, which suggests a high probability of immunocompromised unless adherent to prescribed treatment.
“Treatment adherence can prevent new or worsening health problems, and failure to adhere to your prescriptions can negatively impact the quality of your life.’
Mpox (formerly known as Monkeypox) presents with an acute illness characterised by fever and general flu-like symptoms, followed by the eruption of a blister-like rash on the skin.