Monkeypox case confirmed at Hammanskraal school in Pretoria

The Gauteng Education Department has confirmed that a grade one pupil from Iketleng Primary School in Hammanskraal has been diagnosed with Monkeypox.

The diagnosis comes after the little girl’s parents took her to hospital after displaying symptoms of the infectious disease.

Gauteng Department of Education’s spokesperson Steve Mabona confirmed the case was reported on Tuesday.

Medical care

“According to information at our disposal, the learner had visited relatives in Boplaas this past weekend and during the visit, it is alleged that some of the relatives were displaying symptoms of monkeypox. Upon returning home, the learner reportedly had itchy sores and was taken to the hospital on Monday, 15 July 2024, where the diagnosis was reported as monkeypox.

“The affected learner is currently receiving appropriate medical care and is in isolation along with her family. Consistent communication is being kept with the family to provide all the necessary support,” said Mabona.

Mabona said while the risk to the broader school community remains low, the department has urged parents and guardians to be vigilant and to ensure that children practice good hygiene, including regular handwashing and avoiding close contact with individuals who are unwell.

ALSO READ: Many mpox cases in SA still undiagnosed – specialist

Concerns

Gauteng MEC for Education, Sport, Arts, Culture & Recreation Matome Chiloane has urged the public to remain calm.

“We understand that this development may cause concern, but we assure the public that we are handling the situation with the highest level of care. The health and safety of our school communities are our top priorities, and we are working diligently with health authorities to manage.

“We appeal to all parents and guardians to cooperate with health guidelines and to report any suspected symptoms of monkeypox to healthcare providers promptly. Let us ensure the safety and well-being of our learners and staff,” said Chiloane.

Monkeypox is a viral infection that is primarily spread through direct contact with an infected person or animal, or through contaminated materials.

Common symptoms

Common symptoms of Mpox include:

• Fever
• Headache
• Muscle aches
• Back pain
• Low energy and swollen glands (lymph nodes)
• A rash that may last for two to four weeks

The rash looks like blisters or sores and can affect the face, palms of the hands, soles of the feet, etc.

ALSO READ: Two more Mpox cases recorded in KZN as health department traces contacts