Mpox outbreak has been declared a global emergency and travellers need to be aware of the risks and take necessary precautions.
The harshest lessons of a generation were learnt between 2019 to 2022 when Covid19 pandemic spread and locked down the entire world and stripped people of their freedom. As researchers and doctors rushed to develop a vaccine, the spread of the virus reached unprecedented levels reaching every corner of the globe halting travel and shutting boundaries. The biggest lesson we can take from this is ‘Prevention is better than Cure.’ We spoke to Efrat Marmur of Air Doctor of the best ways to prevent and stay safe from the Mpox (Monkey Pox) virus that has been declared a global emergency by WHO.
Origins of mpox.
Mpox, formerly known as monkeypox, is a viral infection first discovered in 1958 in colonies of monkeys kept for research – hence the name. However, it’s more commonly associated with small mammals such as rodents. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), the first human case was recorded in the Democratic Republic of Congo in 1970. Since then, mpox has been endemic in several Central and West African countries, with occasional outbreaks occurring outside these regions due to international travel and the importation of infected animals.
Symptoms of mpox
The symptoms of mpox typically begin within 3 to 17 days after exposure, during what is known as the incubation period, when the person may not yet exhibit symptoms. Mpox symptoms can vary, but they often start with:
- Fever and chills
- Headaches and fatigue
- Muscle aches, backache, swollen lymph nodes
- Respiratory symptoms such as a sore throat, nasal congestion, or cough
- Rash, typically starting on the face and spreading to other parts of the body, progressing from red bumps to blisters (like pox) and then to scabs
People may experience all of the symptoms above or only a few. The CDC also notes that people with mpox are contagious as soon as they start experiencing symptoms until the rash has completely healed and new skin has formed. Considering these factors, it’s crucial for anyone who develops a rash or other symptoms to seek medical attention as soon as possible, and to follow the latest health guidelines to prevent further spread of the virus. The disease usually resolves on its own after a few weeks, but complications can occur, particularly in those with weakened immune systems.
How to Prevent the Spread of mpox:
According to WHO, there are several key precautions travelers should take to prevent spreading mpox:
- Avoid close contact with anyone showing symptoms, such as skin lesions or rashes.
- Practice good hygiene, including frequent handwashing with soap and water.
- Use personal protective equipment, such as masks and gloves, when in close contact with others, especially in regions where the virus is present.
- Avoid contact with wild animals and don’t consume bushmeat.
How travellers can stay safe:
For travellers, it’s important to exercise caution, especially when planning to visit or transit through affected regions. Here are some steps to ensure safety:
- Stay Informed. Regularly check the latest health advisories and follow official guidelines to stay updated and protect yourself.
- When travelling to high-risk and affected areas, ensure you have full comprehensive travel insurance cover. Whether you need to cancel your trip or face a medical emergency abroad, you’ll want to be covered by travel insurance.
- Consult a medical professional. If you begin experiencing symptoms or feel unwell during or after your trip, seek professional medical care immediately.
- Know How to find local, trusted doctors abroad. If you’re unable to find a local doctor, prefer to avoid local clinics, or face language barriers, use apps like Air Doctor to find trusted, local healthcare providers or arrange video consultations.
By staying informed, following official guidelines, seeking timely medical advice, and knowing how and when to access local doctors, you can better protect yourself while travelling.