Dhaka, Bangladesh (BBN) – Bangladesh has implemented precautionary measures to prevent the entry of Mpox, an infectious disease primarily affecting the Democratic Republic of Congo and neighboring countries.
On Saturday, the Ministry of Health issued a high alert for Mpox, previously known as monkeypox, following reports of the virus in various countries.
The alert came just a day after Pakistan’s health ministry identified its first case of Mpox.
Daud Adnan, the Deputy Director of the Department of Hospitals and Clinics at the Directorate General of Health Services (DGHS), reassured the public that no cases have been detected in Bangladesh.
“We are committed to ensuring that no one enters the country with Mpox,” Adnan stated, emphasizing the government's determination to prevent the virus's entry.
He also stressed the importance of vigilance due to the infectious nature of Mpox.
Proactive measures have been implemented at airports, river routes, and other entry points, and guidelines have been issued to ensure necessary precautions.
The DGHS advised the public to contact helplines 16263 or 10655 for assistance if needed.
Health authorities also urged individuals to seek immediate medical attention if they experience symptoms or have been in contact with an infected person, particularly within 21 days of traveling to an affected country.
Reports indicate that Mpox, which causes symptoms such as pain, swollen lymph nodes, and fever, has reached pandemic levels in the DRC, Burundi, Rwanda, Uganda, and Kenya.
Three days ago, the World Health Organization (WHO) issued a global public health alert regarding the virus.
Temperature Screening at Airport:
In response to the virus, Hazrat Shahjalal International Airport (HSIA), the country’s main airport, has begun screening the temperatures of arriving air travelers.
The HSIA authority is using a thermal scanner archway to screen passengers, and those with symptoms will be sent to Kurmitola General Hospital, Infectious Diseases Hospital (IDH), or Kuwait Bangladesh Maitree Hospital, according to reports from BSS.
Airport authorities have committed to remaining vigilant and addressing passengers who exhibit Mpox symptoms.
Preventive measures include avoiding close contact with people suspected or confirmed to have Mpox, wearing medical masks, avoiding skin-to-skin contact, using disposable gloves, and regularly washing hands with soap and water or an alcohol-based hand rub.
Airlines have been instructed to remain alert and promptly inform health authorities if any passengers exhibit symptoms.
Passengers are also advised to call 10655 if they develop symptoms within 21 days of arrival.
What Are the Symptoms?
Mpox is primarily transmitted from animals to humans but can also spread between humans.
Initial symptoms include fever, headaches, swelling, back pain, and muscle aches.
Once the fever subsides, a rash may develop, often starting on the face before spreading to other parts of the body, particularly the palms of the hands and soles of the feet.
The rash can be extremely itchy or painful, progressing through different stages before forming a scab that eventually falls off, potentially leaving scars.
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