South Africa reports second monkeypox death this week
Mpox spreads through close physical contact. Most cases are mild but it can kill.
A second person has died in South Africa this week from the viral infection mpox, formerly called monkeypox, the health ministry said on Thursday, less than 24 hours after it announced the first death.
The second person who died was a 38-year-old man. He was admitted to a hospital in the KwaZulu-Natal (KZN) province with extensive lesions, headache, fatigue, oral ulcers, muscle pain and a sore throat. He tested positive for mpox on Wednesday.
More To Read
- Mombasa leads Kenya’s mpox outbreak as MoH, WHO step up response
- How misinformation is hampering Kenya's fight against infectious diseases
- Mpox spreads to 20 counties in Kenya, alarming increase in cases reported
- Four bodies found in Mombasa, sparking probe into their 'sudden deaths'
- South African President Cyril Ramaphosa places police minister on leave amid criminal allegations
- Vaccine hesitancy: Inside Kenya’s push against measles, rubella and typhoid
"The patient has unfortunately demised in KZN the same day his test results came back positive," spokesperson for the national health department Foster Mohale said.
The total number of laboratory-confirmed mpox cases stands at six, with two deaths since the first case was recorded five weeks ago.
Mpox spreads through close physical contact. Most cases are mild but it can kill. Initial symptoms include fever, headaches, swellings, back pain, aching muscles, which can develop into a rash.
Other Topics To Read
Top Stories Today
