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Pictures courtesy: (SyhinStas/ iStock) Grade one learner who was thought to have Mpox has tested negative for the viral disease Mpox.
(The Post News)- A public primary school learner in Gauteng who was suspected of having monkeypox (Mpox) has tested negative for the viral disease.
The Department of Health released a statement on Sunday, confirming that a Grade 1 learner from Hammanskraal, who was under investigation for possible Mpox infection, received a negative test result for the virus.
On Thursday, the Gauteng Department of Education initially confirmed that a learner at Iketleng Primary School in Hammanskraal had tested positive for Mpox, but later clarified that the diagnosis needed verification.
However, the department’s spokesperson, Steve Mabona, later withdrew the statement, emphasising that the diagnosis required confirmation from the National Institute for Communicable Diseases (NICD) and the health department before it could be officially confirmed.
He further stated, “Our initial statement was based on official correspondence received from the school.
However, it appears that we may have acted prematurely in confirming the case without awaiting the final verification from the NICD.”
This development comes after the department’s decision last week to submit samples for testing at the NICD.
They apologised for any confusion or worry caused by their earlier statement and assured the public that they are dedicated to providing precise and confirmed information in the future.
The health department reported on Sunday that they had collected samples for lab testing at the National Institute for Communicable Diseases (NICD) the previous week, and the results came back negative.
“At present, we cannot confirm that this infectious disease has been completely eliminated, and there is a risk of its return when severe cases seek medical attention,” according to department spokesman Foster Mohale.
He added that by collaborating with communities and health authorities, unnecessary panic and stigma can be avoided.
Furthermore, the department added that no new Mpox cases have been reported in South Africa in the last week, and the situation is under control.
The symptoms of Mpox typically begin with a sudden onset of fever and flu-like symptoms, which are then accompanied by a characteristic blister-like rash on the skin. While most individuals recover completely, some people may experience severe illness.
The department is encouraging individuals to seek medical attention at a healthcare facility if they exhibit symptoms possibly related to Mpox, rather than self-diagnosing and isolating without confirmed test results.
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