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10-12-2024

NPHC Reminder for Travelers Regarding Monkeypox B

Iliustracija

Since late 2023, a type I strain of Monkeypox virus B has spread in the Democratic Republic of Congo and Burundi, with isolated cases reported in Europe and the United States. This August, Sweden reported its first case of infection of this strain, followed by Germany in October and later the United Kingdom. Cases of Type I Mpox B have also been reported in Thailand and India, with sporadic cases reported in the U.S. and Canada in November. Most cases have been linked to travel to African countries. The National Public Health Centre (NPHC) reminds how the disease spreads and steps to prevent infection.

Epidemiological Situation

Since 2022, over 115,000 Mpox B cases have been recorded across 126 countries. In Europe, more than 28,000 cases have been reported during this period. In Lithuania, five cases of Mpox B were recorded in 2022, and one case of Type II Mpox was identified this fall. According to the European Centre for Disease Prevention and Control (ECDC), the epidemiological situation in Europe remains stable, but vigilance is recommended, particularly regarding travel-related cases.

Key Recommendations for Travelers

Travelers are advised to:

  • Avoid direct contact (skin-to-skin, face-to-face, or through contaminated items) with individuals showing symptoms of Mpox.
  • Refrain from casual sexual encounters.
  • Practice proper hand hygiene.

How Mpox Spreads

Mpox is an infectious disease caused by the monkeypox virus, which exists in two types:

  1. Type I: Congo Basin strain.
  2. Type II: West African strain.

While Mpox B does not spread easily, infection can occur through:

  • Close physical contact with someone showing symptoms, including their skin lesions or scabs.
  • Exposure to bodily fluids such as pus or blood from skin lesions.
  • Respiratory droplets during prolonged face-to-face interactions.
  • Sexual contact, including kissing, touching, or intercourse.

The virus can also spread through contaminated items such as bedding, towels, clothing, or other objects used by an infected person. Mpox is contagious from the onset of symptoms until all rashes heal and a new layer of skin forms, typically lasting 2–4 weeks.

Symptoms of Mpox

Symptoms can range from mild to severe and commonly include:

  • Rash with blisters on the face, hands, feet, eyes, mouth, genitals, or perineum.
  • Fever.
  • Swollen lymph nodes.
  • Headache.
  • Sore throat.
  • Muscle or back pain.
  • Fatigue.

When to Seek Medical Attention

If you have travelled to regions where Mpox is prevalent, or have had close contact with someone infected, and experience any Mpox-related symptoms, promptly consult a dermatologist-venereologist or visit the infectious diseases department at a local hospital.

Last updated: 10-12-2024

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