Ministry Of Health Beware Of Monkeypox From Travelers

JAKARTA - The Ministry of Health is increasing awareness of the risk of transmission of monkeypox or monkeypox carried by domestic and foreign travelers in the country.

"Indonesia's vigilance efforts include preparing circulars to increase vigilance, both in areas and port health offices, including for the health office, hospitals, and so on", said Ministry of Health spokesman, Mohammad Syahril, quoted by Antara, Tuesday, May 24.

Based on the World Health Organization (WHO) report on the global situation as of May 21, 2022, monkeypox is a disease that requires global public attention, because most cases are reported from patients who do not have a history of travel to endemic countries.

The endemic countries in question include Benin, South Sudan, Ghana, Cameroon, the Central African Republic, the Democratic Republic of the Congo, Gabon, Ivory Coast, Liberia, Nigeria, and Sierra Leone.

Syahril who is also the President Director of RSPI Sulianti Saroso said that monkeypox was actually reported in several non-endemic countries, such as Australia, Belgium, Canada, France, Germany, Italy, Portugal, Spain, Sweden, England, and the United States.

"The total number of confirmed cases reported globally is 40 cases, one probable case, and 61 suspected cases. There have been no cases of death due to monkeypox", he said.

Syahril said cases of monkeypox in Indonesia are still nil, but the public is advised to remain vigilant about the transmission of monkeypox.

"Some cases are related to participation in large gatherings that can increase the risk of contact, either through lesions, body fluids, droplets, and contaminated objects", he said.

Syahril said that another effort made by the government was to update the situation and Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) related to monkeypox which can be downloaded via https://infectionemerging.kemkes.go.id/.

In addition, the guidelines for the prevention and control of monkeypox were also revised by adjusting the situation and WHO updates containing surveillance, clinical management, risk communication, and laboratory management.

"The Ministry of Health is also preparing the capacity of examination and reference laboratories", he said.