Second Mpox-related death reported in South Africa within 24 Hours
A second person has succumbed to the viral mpox infection in South Africa this week, as announced by the Ministry of Health on Thursday, June 13, less than 24 hours after the first death was reported.
The second fatality was a 38-year-old man who had been admitted to a hospital in the KwaZulu-Natal (KZN) province.
He presented with extensive lesions, headaches, fatigue, oral ulcers, muscle pain, and a sore throat. He tested positive for mpox on Wednesday, June 12, 2024.
“Tragically, the patient passed away in KZN on the same day his test results confirmed he had mpox,” stated Foster Mohale, spokesperson for the national health department.
Since the initial case was identified five weeks ago, there have been six confirmed laboratory cases of mpox, with two resulting in death.
It is important to note that mpox spreads through close physical contact. While most cases are mild, the infection can be fatal in some instances.
