South Africa's Mpox Outbreak Claims Three Lives

The World Health Organization (WHO) Disease Outbreak News confirmed the mpox outbreak in South Africa has expanded. 

The sudden appearance of unlinked mpox cases in South Africa without a history of international travel, the high HIV prevalence among confirmed cases, and the high case-fatality ratio suggest that community transmission of the mpox virus is underway

As of July 9, 2024, 20 confirmed mpox cases, with three related fatalities in Gauteng, Western Cape, and KwaZulu-Natalhave provinces, have been reported since May 2024.

These mpox cases are South Africa's first since 2022, when five cases were reported, none fatal.

The WHO stated, 'Discussions are underway regarding options for vaccine procurement.'

Currently, two mpox vaccines are being deployed in other African countries.