Friday, August 23, 2024 As the world continues to grapple with the aftermath of the COVID-19 pandemic, global health authorities are now focusing on another infectious disease that poses a significant threat to public health: Mpox , formerly known as monkeypox . In response to a recent uptick in cases, several countries have introduced Mpox screening protocols at major international airports. This move aims to prevent the spread of the virus across borders and safeguard global travel and tourism industries.
Mpox is a viral disease that primarily occurs in Central and West Africa, but in recent years, cases have been reported in various parts of the world, including Europe, North America, and Asia. The disease is caused by the Mpox virus, which is similar to the virus that causes smallpox, although it is generally less severe. Symptoms include fever, rash, and swollen lymph nodes, and while it is usually self-limiting, severe cases can occur, particularly in immunocompromised individuals.
The global health community has raised alarms about the potential for Mpox to spread more widely due to increased international travel and the possibility of undetected cases crossing borders. In light of these concerns, countries have begun implementing screening measures at airports, similar to those used during the COVID-19 pandemic, to detect and manage potential cases early. Countries around the world, particularly those with high volumes of international travelers, have started to intro.