South Africans are being urged to watch for mpox symptoms after the Department of Health reported a rapid increase in laboratory-confirmed infections.
According to the department, South Africa recorded 18 confirmed mpox cases and one probable case between 14 August and 17 September 2026. Fifteen confirmed cases were recorded in Cape Town, while three were reported in Gauteng. The probable case is in KwaZulu-Natal.
NICD surveillance confirms earlier rise
The National Institute for Communicable Diseases (NICD) had recorded eight mpox cases nationally between 1 January and 28 August 2026.
Six of those cases were in the Western Cape, with one each in Gauteng and KwaZulu-Natal. Four were linked to clade IIb and four to clade Ib, according to the NICD’s official mpox dashboard.
The latest Health Department figures therefore show a significant increase since the NICD’s August update.
Mpox is classified as a Category I notifiable medical condition in South Africa. The NICD provides laboratory testing and also conducts national wastewater surveillance to support early detection.
What symptoms should people watch for?
The NICD says mpox symptoms can include fever, headache, muscle aches, back pain, chills and severe tiredness.
A blister-like rash can develop after the initial symptoms and may appear on the face, hands, feet or other parts of the body. Most people recover within two to four weeks.
The virus spreads mainly through close contact with an infected person, including skin-to-skin contact, bodily fluids or contaminated items such as clothing and bedding.
Updated guidance issued
The NICD has published updated September 2026 preparedness guidance for healthcare workers and clinicians as authorities monitor the rise in cases.
Health Department spokesperson Foster Mohale has urged the public to remain vigilant, saying sustained co-operation will be needed to limit further transmission.
Anyone who develops symptoms consistent with mpox should seek medical care so that testing and appropriate management can be considered.