South Africa has recorded a rapid increase in mpox cases, with Cape Town the most affected city in the current rise. As of 17 September 2026, the Department of Health reported 18 laboratory-confirmed cases and one probable case nationally. Fifteen cases were reported in the Western Cape, particularly in Cape Town, with three in Gauteng and one in KwaZulu-Natal. Thirteen of the cases were recorded between 13 August and 17 September, which health authorities say suggests rapid local transmission. Patients range in age from 23 to 50 years. Mpox can affect anyone. It spreads mainly through close physical or skin-to-skin contact with an infected person and through contaminated materials such as bedding, clothing or towels. Symptoms can include fever, headache, muscle aches, fatigue and a rash or skin lesions. Anyone in any South African city who develops possible symptoms—particularly after close contact with a confirmed or suspected case—should seek medical attention and avoid close contact with others. The government has secured limited doses of the MVA-BN vaccine and tecovirimat treatment. Health authorities will decide how these are used as part of the outbreak response. Source: South African Department of Health, 18 September 2026. Mpox CapeTown SouthAfrica PublicHealth LGBTQHealth
Cape Town records most of South Africa’s rising mpox cases
As of 17 September, South Africa had recorded 18 laboratory-confirmed mpox cases and one probable case. Fifteen cases were reported in the Western Cape, particularly Cape Town.