Mpox Global & Singapore Situation
Mpox, formerly known as monkeypox, is a viral disease caused by the monkeypox virus, which is part of the Ortho-poxvirus genus. It is characterized by symptoms such as a painful rash, fever, and enlarged lymph nodes.
The disease can spread through direct contact with infected individuals, animals, or body fluids. Although mpox is typically a self-limiting illness, it can lead to severe illness, particularly in vulnerable populations such as pregnant women, young children, and immunocompromised individuals.
WHO Global Health Emergency Declaration
The World Health Organization (WHO) declared mpox a Public Health Emergency of International Concern (PHEIC) due to a significant outbreak in the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) and other African countries. This declaration was driven by the emergence of a new, more virulent strain of the virus, clade 1b, which has spread rapidly through sexual networks and has been detected in countries that had not previously reported Mpox cases. The declaration aims to prompt international cooperation, increase funding, and accelerate vaccine distribution to control the outbreak.
Mpox Situation in Singapore
In Singapore, the risk of Mpox transmission remains low at present. The Ministry of Health (MOH) has reported that all Mpox cases detected in Singapore have been of the milder Clade II variant, with no instances of the more severe Clade I strain. As of July 2024, Singapore has recorded ten cases of Mpox, with a total of 32 cases in 2023.
Key Points for Singapore
Low Transmission Risk: The chances of contracting Mpox in Singapore are currently considered remote, especially in casual everyday settings like outside dining, public utility spaces, public transport or shared office spaces.
Public Health Measures
MOH has implemented measures such as requiring travellers to report symptoms and travel history upon arrival to Singapore as this currently remain as the likely source of import for the virus.
General Precautions
Members of public should maintain good personal hygiene including handwashing, avoid contact with unwell individuals, especially those with significant travel history to affected countries, and to also practice safe sex.
Travelers from Mpox-affected areas should monitor for symptoms and seek medical attention if they develop signs like fever or rash, informing healthcare providers of any recent travel.
Overall, the Singapore health system remains vigilant, with public health measures in place to manage and monitor the situation. MOH has provided guidelines for healthcare practitioners to identify and manage suspected cases.
