PRESS RELEASE, August 17th, 2024.
DECLARATION OF ONGOING MPOX OUTBREAK AS A PUBLIC HEALTH EMERGENCY OF CONTINENTAL SECURITY (PHECS) AND A PUBLIC HEALTH EMERGENCY OF INTERNATIONAL CONCERN (PHEIC)
The Africa Centres for Disease Control and Prevention (Africa CDC) has officially declared the ongoing Mpox outbreak as a Public Health Emergency of Continental Security (PHECS). The World Health Organization (WHO) through the Director-General, also declared the Mpox outbreak as a Public Health Emergency of International Concern (PHEIC).
This declaration highlights the critical need for coordinated efforts across the African continent to address and mitigate the impact of the outbreak. Significant efforts are already underway in close collaboration with communities to help reinforce measures to curb mpox by enhancing surveillance, improving preparedness, and strengthening response mechanisms.
The response is being intensified as the situation evolves, with countries ramping up their public health interventions to control the spread of the virus.
What is Mpox?
Mpox, previously known as monkeypox, is a viral zoonotic disease that can be transmitted from animals to humans and between humans. It is caused by the monkeypox virus, which belongs to the same family of viruses as smallpox. While the symptoms of Mpox are similar to smallpox, they are generally milder, and the disease is less contagious.
Symptoms of Mpox include fever, rash, swollen lymph nodes, and muscle aches. In some cases, the disease can lead to severe complications, particularly in individuals with weakened immune systems. Mpox is primarily spread through direct contact with the blood, bodily fluids, or skin lesions of infected animals or humans. It can also be transmitted through respiratory droplets during close, prolonged contact.
To protect yourself and others, wash your hands frequently with soap and water, report any unusual symptoms to the nearest health facility and follow the guidance of Ministry of Health.
Assurance to The Gambian Population:
Considering these developments, the Ministry of Health of The Gambia wishes to assure the public that there is no need for panic. The Ministry of Health is vigilant and has already strengthened the national surveillance system to promptly detect and respond to any potential cases of Mpox.
The Gambia has not recorded any confirmed cases of Mpox to date, but the Ministry of Health remains on high alert and has intensified several measures, in collaboration with Africa CDC, WHO and WAHO to ensure that The Gambia is well-prepared to respond to any potential Mpox cases. These measures include:
- Enhanced Surveillance: The Ministry of Health has activated its national surveillance system to monitor for any signs of Mpox within the country. Health facilities have been equipped with the necessary tools and protocols to identify and report suspected cases immediately. Integrated Disease Surveillance and Response training for health care professionals is currently ongoing country-wide.
- Cross-Border Collaboration: The Gambia is actively engaging with neighboring countries and those of the sub-region, particularly Senegal, to coordinate efforts in preventing the spread of Mpox across borders. This includes regular information exchange, joint surveillance activities, and coordinated public health interventions.
- Public Awareness Campaigns: The Ministry of Health is rolling out comprehensive public health education campaigns to inform Gambians about the risks of Mpox and the steps they can take to protect themselves. These campaigns will be disseminated through various media channels, including radio, television, and social and print media.
- Preparedness and Response Plans: The Ministry of Health has developed contingency plans to ensure a swift and effective response in the event of an outbreak. This includes the establishment of isolation units, stockpiling of necessary medical supplies, and training of healthcare workers on Mpox case management.
Conclusion:
The Ministry of Health of The Gambia reiterates its commitment to safeguarding the health and well-being of all Gambians. While the declaration of Mpox as a Public Health Emergency of Continental Security by Africa CDC and Public Health Emergency of International Concern by the WHO is a serious development, the Ministry of Health is taking all necessary steps to ensure that The Gambia remains protected.
We urge the public to remain calm and vigilant, adhere to public health guidelines, and report any unusual symptoms to healthcare providers. Together, we can prevent the spread of Mpox and protect our communities.
For further information, please contact: Dr Momodou T. Nyassi, Office of the Director of Health Services, Ministry of Health – mtnyassi@gmail.com