A second person has died in South Africa this week from the viral infection mpox, says the health ministry, less than 24 hours after it announced the first death.
Second Mpox Patient in South Africa has Died
Health Minister Dr Joe Phaahla has announced a second death linked to Mpox, formerly known as monkeypox.
The announcement comes less than 24 hours after the government provided an update on its efforts to control the spread of the infectious disease.
According to the department, the deceased was a 38-year-old male patient, who was admitted at a local hospital in uMgungundlovu, KwaZulu-Natal.
The patient tested positive for Mpox on Wednesday after presenting with extensive lesions, lymphadenopathy, headache, fatigue, oral ulcers, muscle pain, and a sore throat.
“The patient has unfortunately demised in KwaZulu-Natal the same day his test results came back positive,” the statement read on Thursday.
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The deceased is said to have been living with HIV and listed his residential address as Brakpan in Gauteng.
This brings the total number of positive cases in the country from five to six, and two deaths within five weeks.
“The department is working closely with both Gauteng and KwaZulu-Natal Departments of Health to investigate the case. Further updates and reports will be provided once the investigation has been concluded.”
The Minister said they are still looking at obtaining vaccines and considering various options, including who will be the priority target in terms of immunisation.
Second Mpox Patient in South Africa has Died