FIRST CASE OF MONKEYPOX CASE REPORTED AT GAUTENG SCHOOL

Thu 18 July 2024:

The first case of Monkeypox at a Gauteng public school has been reported at the Iketleng Primary School in Hammanskraal.

“Gauteng MEC for Education, Sport, Arts, Culture & Recreation, Matome Chiloane, wishes to inform the public of the first Monkeypox case at a Gauteng public school, which was reported on Tuesday, 16 July 2024,” said the Department of Education, Sport, Arts, Culture & Recreation.

The Monkeypox disease is also known as Mpox.

In a statement on Thursday, the department said a Grade 1 girl learner from the school was diagnosed with Monkeypox which her parents reported to the school on Tuesday, 16 July 2024. This after the child was taken to hospital after displaying symptoms.

“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 MEC has assured the public that the situation is being addressed.

“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 MEC Chiloane.

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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.

The Gauteng Department of Education, in collaboration with the Gauteng Department of Health, will initiate all necessary protocols to contain the situation and prevent further spread. In addition, the Integrated School Health Programme (ISHP) Team will visit the school to provide intense health education and screening.

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

EVERYTHING YOU NEED TO KNOW ABOUT MPOX DISEASE

“While the risk to the broader school community remains low, we urge 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,” said the department.

–SAnews.gov.za

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