Ministry of Health increases surveillance for Monkey pox

The Ministry of Health, Wellness and the Environment has said it is closely monitoring reports of confirmed cases of MPox (Monkey pox) in Trinidad and Tobago.

As a result, the Ministry has advised the public in a release that it has heightened its surveillance and testing capacity across St Vincent and the Grenadines (SVG) with regards to MPox.

Monkey pox is a viral zoonosis (a virus transmitted to humans from animals), with symptoms similar to those seen in the past in smallpox patients, although it is clinically less severe. For some persons, the first symptom of Mpox is a rash or mucosal lesions which can last 2–4 weeks, while others may have skin rash accompanied by fever, headache, muscle aches, back pain, low energy, and swollen lymph nodes.

The Ministry is therefore advising the public to continue observing a healthy lifestyle which reduces exposure to viral infections, including frequent hand washing, minimizing contact with person/crowds and seeking care immediately on suspicion of exposure.

Routine surveillance for other infectious diseases continues to be conducted and is coupled with frequent awareness sessions for healthcare staff and the public.

The Ministry said it will continue to monitor the situation closely and update the public accordingly. To date, St Vincent and the Grenadines has recorded no confirmed case/s of MPox.