TRIPLE ALERT: FLU, MPOX, PINK EYE CASES RISE

MBABANE – The Ministry of Health has issued a triple health alert, warning the public of a surge in seasonal influenza, conjunctivitis (pink eye), and heightened vigilance regarding Mpox cases originating from neighbouring South Africa.

As the winter season approaches, the ministry has reported a noticeable increase in seasonal influenza (flu) cases across the country. Nsindiso Tsabedze, Ministry of Health Communications Officer, confirmed that routine and sentinel surveillance has detected a rise in patients reporting influenza-like illness (ILI) at health facilities nationwide.

“The ministry’s routine and sentinel surveillance has detected an increase in patients reporting influenza-like illness (ILI) across health facilities nationwide,” stated Tsabedze.

In response, the ministry has strengthened surveillance and response measures in health facilities and is urging the public to remain vigilant.

Contagious

With influenza being a contagious respiratory illness, citizens are advised to take necessary precautions, particularly to protect vulnerable groups such as young children, the elderly, pregnant women and individuals with underlying health conditions.

Preventative measures include regular hand washing with soap and water, covering the mouth and nose when coughing or sneezing, and avoiding close contact with sick individuals. The Ministry also strongly encourages eligible individuals, especially those in high-risk groups, to get vaccinated against influenza, as this is the most effective way to prevent the flu.

Adding to the health concerns, the ministry has issued an alert regarding rising Mpox cases in South Africa, specifically in Gauteng Province. Given the close proximity and frequent travel between Eswatini and South Africa, the ministry is urging vigilance regarding Mpox symptoms. Mpox, a viral disease transmissible through close physical contact, respiratory droplets and contaminated materials, presents with symptoms including fever, chills, swollen lymph nodes, headache, muscle pains, fatigue and a characteristic skin rash that progresses from flat spots to blisters and scabs.

While Eswatini has no confirmed Mpox cases, the ministry is strengthening surveillance and response systems. The public is advised to avoid close contact with individuals showing rash or flu-like symptoms, practice frequent hand-washing, avoid sharing personal items and seek immediate medical attention if symptoms occur. Travellers from affected areas are urged to monitor themselves for any symptoms.

Characterised

Furthermore, the Health Ministry has also issued an alert due to a rise in conjunctivitis, or ‘Pink Eye’, cases, particularly in the Shiselweni and southern Lubombo regions. Pink Eye, characterised by red, itchy, swollen eyes with discharge, is highly contagious and spreads through direct or indirect contact.

Symptoms include redness, irritation, discharge, swollen eyelids, light sensitivity and a gritty sensation. While most cases are mild and resolve quickly, the ministry advises seeking medical attention for severe symptoms, persistent pain or vision problems. Infected individuals are advised to use warm compresses, avoid over-the-counter eye drops without consultation, and stay home to prevent further spread.

To minimise transmission, the ministry recommends frequent hand-washing, avoiding touching eyes with unclean hands, not sharing personal items, staying home if diagnosed, disinfecting commonly touched surfaces, and avoiding close contact with infected individuals.

The Ministry of Health is closely monitoring all three situations and will provide updates as needed. They urge the public to remain vigilant and cooperate with health authorities to prevent the spread of these illnesses.

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