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Malta Intensifies Monitoring as WHO Declares Mpox Outbreak a Global Emergency
August 17 2024 14:10 by PCLMedia
Malta’s health authorities are ramping up their monitoring efforts in response to the World Health Organization’s (WHO) recent declaration of a Public Health Emergency of International Concern (PHEIC) regarding the ongoing monkeypox (mpox) outbreak. The situation, which originated in the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC), has now escalated globally, prompting heightened vigilance and preparedness in Malta.
The outbreak, predominantly centered in the DRC, has resulted in over 500 deaths this year alone. The virus has since spread beyond Africa, with a new variant recently identified in Sweden, and another case reported in Pakistan. The emergence of this new variant, linked to the African outbreak, underscores the urgency of the situation.
In response to these developments, Malta’s health ministry has significantly enhanced its surveillance systems to detect and address any potential cases of mpox locally. Although no cases have been reported in Malta to date, the ministry has emphasized the importance of vigilance, particularly among travelers to affected regions. A press release from the ministry stated, “Malta remains vigilant and committed to protecting the public from the monkeypox epidemic. Surveillance systems have been strengthened to respond quickly to any suspected cases.”
The ministry has advised travelers to exercise caution, particularly those who have had close contact with individuals in affected areas. “It is crucial for anyone who has symptoms of mpox or has had close contact with someone diagnosed with mpox to seek medical advice immediately,” the ministry added. The symptoms of mpox include flu-like symptoms and skin lesions, and maintaining strict hygiene practices is essential.
This marks the second time since 2022 that mpox has been declared a PHEIC. The virus, which is primarily transmitted through close contact with infected animals or humans, was first detected in humans in 1970 in the DRC and is endemic to central and west Africa. The current outbreak has seen a troubling rise in cases, particularly with the emergence of a new strain known as clade 1b, which has been spreading through sexual networks and raising concerns about a broader epidemic.
Professor Dimie Ogoina, Chair of the Emergency Committee, highlighted the gravity of the situation: “Mpox, originating in Africa, was neglected there, and later caused a global outbreak in 2022. It is time to act decisively to prevent history from repeating itself.” The spread of clade 1b to neighboring countries such as Burundi, Kenya, Rwanda, and Uganda, which had previously not reported mpox cases, has further intensified fears of a wider crisis.
Malta’s health system is prepared to implement necessary measures, including treatment and isolation protocols, should any cases arise locally. The Health Ministry’s statement reflects a proactive approach: “Public health measures are in place to ensure diagnosis and treatment where necessary.”
The ministry has emphasized that individuals traveling to affected countries should avoid close contact with people exhibiting symptoms similar to those of monkeypox and should avoid touching objects and materials used by infected individuals. Frequent hand washing with soap and water or the use of alcohol-based hand sanitizers is strongly encouraged.
The risk assessment for Maltese citizens traveling to affected regions who have close contact with local communities is considered moderate, including interactions with healthcare workers, domestic contacts, or sexual contacts. However, the risk is assessed as low for those who do not have close contact with the affected community.
As the situation continues to evolve, Malta’s health authorities remain committed to safeguarding public health through vigilant monitoring and rapid response to any potential mpox cases.
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