WHO declared Mpox a global health emergency.

The WHO already raised the alarm in May 2022, when countries where the virus is not endemic reported cases. The current situation with Mpox in 2024 is no different, and the virus is spreading rapidly in the eastern part of the Democratic Republic of Congo and various neighboring countries. The rapid virus spread concerns the WHO, as it could spread across all continents. Following the declaration of a public health emergency by the WHO, Sweden yesterday reported its first imported case. The Department of Public Health (DVG) will closely monitor developments around the Mpox virus and inform the community accordingly.

Symptoms

Mpox (monkeypox) is a virus that causes mild symptoms. For risk groups, such as children, pregnant women, or individuals with a weakened immune system, the virus can be dangerous and even fatal.
Symptoms begin with fever, headache, swollen lymph nodes, and body aches. Within 1 to 3 days after the fever, a rash appears, affecting, in most cases, the face, hands, and feet. The rash then develops into pus-filled blisters. Mpox can be confused with other conditions, such as smallpox, chickenpox, or impetigo. Therefore, people with these symptoms must contact their doctor for necessary tests and a correct diagnosis.

Transmission

Transmission of Mpox in non-endemic countries occurs from person to person through direct contact (close contact) with an infected individual. It can happen through droplets from the infected person when coughing or sneezing. You can also become infected by contact with the fluid from the infected person's blisters (skin-to-skin contact or through contaminated objects).

Treatment and Vaccine

There is no specific vaccine available for the Mpox virus. The smallpox virus vaccine can offer some protection, but due to global shortage, prevention is essential. There is also no specific treatment available, only symptomatic treatment, where the symptoms disappear within 2 to a maximum of 3 weeks.

Hygiene Measures

Avoid contact with people who feel unwell, and wash your hands regularly. Once you are diagnosed with Mpox, you must go into isolation until there are no more visible scabs on the body.

For more information, follow DVG on the Facebook page of the Department of Public Health DVG Aruba, visit www.dvg.aw, call 5224200, or send an email to servicio@dvg.aw.