Recent rising cases of human mpox in the Republic of South Africa: a possible public health threat

The reported cases of monkeypox (mpox) in South Africa have suddenly risen after 2022. The World Health Organization (WHO) declared mpox as a public health emergency of international concern (PHEIC) recently, for the second time. With high case fatality rate (CFR) especially among the gay with AIDS (acquired immunodeficiency syndrome) comorbidity due to HIV (human immunodeficiency viruses) infection, it is of considerable health concern particularly in South Africa. Genome sequencing confirmed that the clade IIb strain was prevalent in the country, whereas clade Ib was prevalent in other African nations. This article discusses the several measures undertaken by the health agencies in South Africa and the healthcare workers in coordination with the WHO to curb mpox transmission and contain its infections.