Children Most Affected by Mumps Outbreak in South Africa

by
1 min read
south africa mumps

According to the National Institute for Communicable Disease (NICD), South Africa is currently experiencing a mumps outbreak which has raised concerns. The infection is caused by the rubavirus and is most commonly found in children between the ages of 5 and 9; however, it can infect individuals of all ages. The symptoms of mumps include painful swelling of the salivary glands, which can occur on one or both sides of the face.

Second Occurrences of Mumps

While previous exposure to mumps generally provides lifetime immunity, second occurrences are possible. Reports of potential clusters or outbreaks in various provinces have prompted the NICD to investigate further.

Data Analysis Confirms Outbreak

To confirm the outbreak, the NICD analyzed national public sector laboratory test data for mumps PCR positives and Immunoglobulin M (IgM) positives from 2013 to the present. The data revealed that the annual percent-positivity for mumps IgM tests rose to an alarming 69% in 2023, with children aged 1-4 years being the most affected group.

Monitoring the Epidemic Curve

The epidemic curve monitors the number of cases over time and shows a consistent increase in IgM test positives from the sixth week of 2023. Provinces such as KwaZulu-Natal, Mpumalanga, and Gauteng have reported the majority of these cases. According to the NICD, the sudden growth in IgM and PCR test positives confirms the existence of an outbreak.

Curbing the Spread of the Virus

Public health authorities in countries with widely available mumps vaccinations may recommend an extra dose of the combination measles, mumps, and rubella (MMR) vaccine to individuals at higher risk of infection during an outbreak. Unfortunately, the MMR vaccine is not universally available in South Africa.

Seeking Medical Attention

The NICD encourages individuals to consult their local healthcare provider if they suspect they have contracted the infection. It is important to be aware of the symptoms of mumps and to seek prompt medical attention if exposed to the virus. This will not only help prevent further spread of the disease but also ensure that those affected receive appropriate treatment and support.

Tags:

You might be interested in

View all

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published.

events entertainment
Previous Story

Cape Town’s Successful Events Season and Plans for the Future

south africa hiv prevention
Next Story

South Africa Gears Up for Anti-HIV Injection Production: A Comprehensive Overview

Latest from Blog

early childhood education toy libraries

Cape Town’s Transformative Toy Libraries: Revolutionizing Early Childhood Development

Cape Town’s toy libraries are changing how young children learn by creating fun and exciting places to play and grow. With 24 vibrant libraries, kids can explore new stories and play with educational toys that help them develop important skills. Educators also benefit, gaining access to helpful resources that enhance teaching methods. This initiative not only supports children’s growth but also encourages a love for learning that can last a lifetime. As these libraries thrive, they inspire communities everywhere to embrace the joy of learning through play.

wastewater management urban sustainability

Innovative Urban Water Management: Embracing Wastewater Package Plants

Wastewater package plants are small, smart facilities that help cities manage dirty water in a cleaner way. They are easy to install and can be placed where big treatment plants can’t go, making them super useful for crowded urban areas. Recently, a workshop brought together many people to learn how to set up and run these plants, highlighting their importance for public health and the environment. By using these innovative systems, cities can boost their economies while making sure they take care of our precious water resources.

illegal mining south africa

Confronting Illegal Mining in South Africa: A Complex Battle

South Africa is fighting against illegal mining with a strong team of police, soldiers, and private security. They’ve recently targeted a large group of about 6,500 illegal miners in Ekurhuleni, where hidden tunnels and makeshift homes showed the extent of this underground world. While these operations can push miners away temporarily, true solutions need to address the economic struggles that drive people to these risky jobs. The goal is to create lasting change that not only protects the environment but also offers communities new opportunities for a better life.

fireworks policy public safety

Balancing Tradition and Safety: Cape Town’s Fireworks Policy

Cape Town is getting ready for exciting celebrations like Diwali and Guy Fawkes Night, but there are important rules about fireworks! To keep everyone safe, people must get permission from the police and have their event checked by the Fire and Rescue Service. While many love the colorful displays, some worry about noise and the danger to pets and wildlife. As the city balances fun traditions with safety, it’s clear that thoughtful celebrations can light up the sky without causing chaos below.