MOH monitoring spread of monkeypox in few global pockets

The Ministry of Health (MOH) reported that it is closely monitoring the developments of the outbreak of monkeypox in several African countries, following the announcement that the outbreak of the disease has become a “global health emergency” and the emergence of a new strain of the disease.

The Ministry stated that it is liaising with international partners in the Gulf Center for Disease Prevention, as well as with the World Health Organization, to monitor the situation and prepare according to epidemiological developments. The Kuwait Center for Disease Prevention and Control (Kuwait CDC) is working closely with all concerned parties to expedite national efforts to prevent and combat infectious diseases, as reported by the Arabic daily Al Qabas.

In this context, the Ministry explained that monkeypox (Empox) is a viral disease with two subtypes, causing rash, blisters, and mucosal lesions, accompanied by fever, headache, muscle pain, weakness, and swollen lymph nodes.

It also indicated that the disease can be transmitted through physical contact with an infected person, especially through sexual contact, kissing or even touch, and it can also be transmitted through respiratory secretions. The diagnosis and infection with the disease are confirmed through the polymerase chain reaction (PCR) test, and is treated through supportive care and reducing symptoms, or with antivirals in some cases.

The Ministry indicated that the disease can be prevented by maintaining continuous hand hygiene, using soap and water or alcohol-based sanitizers, avoiding sexual promiscuity, and avoiding direct physical contact with people showing symptoms of the disease. It also recommended exercising caution when traveling to countries that have recorded cases of the infection.

Finally, the Ministry affirmed it will be providing regular updates on the situation, while wishing everyone good health and safety.