! Mauritius Remains Vigilant Amid Mpox Spread in Africa

In response to the rising cases of mpox across Africa, the World Health Organization (WHO) has declared its highest global alert level. Formerly known as monkeypox, this disease has been reported in 16 African countries since January 2022, with a staggering 160% increase in cases anticipated for 2024. The WHO’s actions underscore the urgency of the situation.

While Mauritius has not recorded any mpox cases, local authorities are on high alert, especially given the incoming flights from Kenya where the virus has been reported.

Since the WHO’s initial announcement regarding the disease in 2022, Mauritian authorities have implemented a comprehensive protocol to safeguard public health.

This protocol includes heightened surveillance at the country’s airport and seaport, with thermal scanners employed to screen all arriving passengers.

A source from the Ministry of Health confirmed these measures, indicating the government’s preparedness in the face of potential threats.

Additionally, the protocol includes the procurement of vaccines, and the Ministry of Health is currently equipped with 1,000 vaccines ready for deployment if necessary.

The same source elaborated on the established surveillance and response plan, emphasizing the importance of readiness, particularly with flights coming from Kenya.

It is worth noting that the WHO has advised nations to refrain from implementing any measures unless mpox cases are confirmed within their borders.

This is the second time in two years that an international public health emergency has been declared for mpox.

The disease, caused by an orthopoxvirus, was first identified in humans in 1970 in the Democratic Republic of Congo and is now considered endemic in Central and West Africa.

In July 2022, a surge of mpox cases led to a declaration of an international public health emergency, as the virus spread rapidly through sexual contact in countries where it had not previously been observed.

As Mauritius remains on alert, the focus continues to be on proactive measures to prevent the introduction and spread of mpox within its borders while closely monitoring the situation across the region.

Source: Defi Media