Dear UP staff and students,

On 15 August 2022 the Minister of Health, Dr Joe Phaahla, announced the fourth case of monkeypox in South Africa. The case involves a 28-year-old man from the Western Cape with a history of travel to Spain, who returned to SA recently. Scientific reports indicate that the monkeypox virus is part of the same family of viruses as variola virus, the virus that causes smallpox, which explains why some of the symptoms are similar. Please see below some information regarding how to identify symptoms, and preventative measures you can take.

Symptoms

The symptoms of monkeypox may start as flu-like, including fever, headache, muscle aches, chills, and exhaustion. An important symptom is swollen lymph nodes (glands), which is uncommon in flu and COVID-19 infection. The typical rash begins within one to four days of the appearance of these symptoms, but cases have been reported where the rash appears before other symptoms. The rash tends to be concentrated on the face, palms of the hands, soles of the feet, and genital areas. It typically progresses to form vesicles (blisters) that eventually crust over and fall off.

Suspected cases

If someone suspects they have monkeypox, they should isolate themselves from physical contact with others and seek medical advice immediately. A healthcare worker will evaluate the person and decide whether further testing, notification of the NICD, and isolation are needed. As the spread between humans occurs through close contact with an infected person, or infected items such as clothing and bedding, isolation from other people is important in containing spread. We advise those who feel unwell not to come to campus, and to seek medical attention immediately. 

Preventative measures

As monkeypox is spread by contact with contaminated body fluids and surfaces, contact precautions are important preventative measures. Unlike some of the respiratory viruses, which are spread by aerosols, monkeypox spreads via large droplets and direct contact, so healthcare workers and cleaning staff are at risk when dealing closely with infected people and their belongings. Gloving and good hand hygiene (thorough washing with soap and water or use of alcohol-based sanitiser) should be practised after contact with potentially contaminated linen or surfaces. It is important to note that gloving should not replace hand hygiene, and those who work with gloves should avoid contaminating themselves by, for instance, touching their face with contaminated gloves. Face masks should be worn if there is close contact with infected people. Healthcare workers caring for patients with monkeypox, or potential cases, should wear personal protective equipment. Considering the risk of spread from animal products, meat should be thoroughly cooked. As monkeypox has been spread through sexual contact, safe sexual practices (such as condom use) should be reiterated among students.

Be safe,

Prof Caroline Nicholson

UP Registrar