Second monkeypox case detected in the Western Cape

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The patient has travel history to Spain and returned to South Africa in the second week of August 2022.

A polymerase chain reaction (PCR) test was performed in a private pathology laboratory and the samples were submitted to the National Institute for Communicable Diseases (NICD) for sequencing analysis.

Public-health response measures to prevent the spread of the infection, including contact tracing have been instituted.

The fourth case follows three unlinked laboratory-confirmed monkeypox cases that were reported from Gauteng, Western Cape and Limpopo provinces respectively.

These cases were reported in males aged 30, 32 and 42-years who have since completed a self-isolation and monitoring period without reported further symptoms and health complications.

Minister Phaahla will, on Friday this week provide more details on the government`s response to monkeypox during the planned media briefing.