South African authorities have raised the alarm over rising mpox cases, urging the public to stay vigilant to prevent wider spread of the disease.

In a statement on Friday, South Africa’s Department of Health urged citizens to watch for mpox symptoms as the country has seen a rapid rise in laboratory-confirmed cases in recent weeks. 

“As of 17 September 2026, the country has recorded 18 confirmed and one probable case, and this requires immediate and sustained public cooperation to contain,” the statement said.

“The majority (15) of these cases were reported in the Western Cape, City of Cape Town in particular, 3 in Gauteng and 1 in KwaZulu-Natal,” it added.

Expressing concern over the rapid spread of mpox, the Department of Health said it recorded 13 of the cases in less than a month.

“Of concern is that 13 of the total cases were recorded between 13 August and 17 September, which suggests a rapid local transmission of this preventable viral infection. All cases/patients range in age from 23 to 50 years, with a median age of 36.5 years, and 18 of them are males with only 1 female.

“One of the most recent cases involved an individual who travelled to Spain earlier this month and returned to South Africa on 14 September. This person underwent testing in Spain after being informed of his probable case status,” the statement added.

According to the statement, South African health authorities are in contact with their Spanish counterparts to confirm the individual’s mpox status based on laboratory test results. 

“Mpox cases may present in any person who was in close contact with someone who tested positive for the virus in the last few days (up to 21 days) and will present by displaying similar symptoms,” it added.

Warning the public to be alert, authorities said continued surveillance, early detection, and public cooperation cannot be overemphasised in preventing further transmission. 

“Mpox is a viral disease that can affect anyone regardless of race, gender, sexual orientation and socioeconomic status. Members of the public are reminded of mpox symptoms, which include fever, headache, muscle aches, back pain, fatigue and rash or skin lesions that may appear on the face, hands, feet, genitals or other body parts,” it added.