Antigua and Barbuda Ramps Up Mpox Preparedness Following WHO Declaration
In a swift response to the World Health Organization’s (WHO) declaration of MPOX as a public health emergency of international concern, Antigua and Barbuda’s health authorities have launched a comprehensive preparedness plan.
The announcement, made on August 14, 2024, prompted an immediate reaction from the island nation’s health sector.
Minister of Health, Sir Molwyn Joseph, convened an emergency meeting of the Health Disaster Executive on August 15, 2024, to address the situation.
The meeting brought together key stakeholders from various sectors, including tourism, aviation, port authority, immigration, and healthcare.
“A decision has been made for a multi-stakeholder approach to increase surveillance at the ports of entry of Antigua and Barbuda and at health care facilities across the country,” a press release stated.
It further states that, “The laboratory of Sir Lester Bird Medical Centre is equipped to conduct diagnostic testing of suspected cases, should the need arise.”
MPOX is a disease caused by the monkey-pox virus which is similar to the smallpox virus. Persons typically experience a fever, rash, swollen lymph nodes, muscle pain, back pain and/or fatigue. Anyone experiencing these symptoms should seek attention from their health care provider.
The health ministry also outlined preventive measures for the public. “The public is advised that frequent handwashing, and routine wet cleaning and disinfecting of surfaces may prevent infection. Persons are therefore strongly advised to adopt these public health measures to avoid becoming infected with the MPOX virus,” the release stated.
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Faithful national August 16, 2024, 8:05 AM
Palesade August 17, 2024, 4:48 AM