Q
Always miss our information?
Click and reply "Unmute" to set up notifications.
China Reports Imported Mpox Cluster, Provinces Launches Epidemiological Investigations
Pic irrelevant to text
Recent reports from the Chinese Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) indicate that a cluster of mpox virus infections has been detected in China, involving the Ib sub-branch of the virus. The source of infection has been traced back to a foreign national with a travel history to the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC).
Following the identification of the outbreak, China, along with provinces such as Zhejiang, Guangdong, Beijing, and Tianjin, has promptly activated its joint prevention and control mechanism. Measures include epidemiological investigations, source tracing, risk assessments, and case management. As of now, four related cases have been identified among close contacts, all of whom were infected through intimate contact. Symptoms of the cases are mainly mild, featuring rashes and blisters. No further infections have been detected among general contacts, and the situation is currently under control.
1
What is the Mpox Virus Ib Sub-Branch?
Mpox virus has two main branches: I and II, which are further subdivided into I.a, I.b, II.a, and II.b. Historically, Mpox outbreaks were mainly confined to regions in Africa. However, in May 2022, the II.b sub-branch began spreading in non-endemic countries in Europe, the Americas, and Asia, leading the WHO to declare it a Public Health Emergency of International Concern (PHEIC) on July 23, 2022. As the II.b outbreak was gradually brought under control, the WHO declared on May 11, 2023, that Mpox no longer constituted a PHEIC.
The Ib sub-branch of the Mpox virus was first identified in South Kivu, Democratic Republic of Congo, in September 2023. By July 2024, it had spread to surrounding countries, causing sustained community transmission and gradually reaching other regions through international travel. On August 14, 2024, WHO again declared the Mpox situation as a Public Health Emergency of International Concern.
2
Progress of the Mpox Virus Ib Sub-Branch Outside Africa
As of now, 12 countries outside of Africa have reported imported cases of the Mpox virus Ib sub-branch, including Sweden, Thailand, India, the UK, Germany, the US, Canada, Belgium, France, Pakistan, Oman, and China. In some countries, such as the UK and Germany, cases have resulted in secondary infections within households. Similarly, China's recent outbreak involves secondary cases stemming from an imported infection.
3
What to Do When Returning from an Area Affected by Mpox
Travelers from Mpox-endemic regions, especially those who have had direct contact with Mpox patients or have developed symptoms such as fever, rash, or swollen lymph nodes, should proactively report to customs upon arrival. They should cooperate with health authorities and undergo quarantine and health checks as required.
Other travelers should monitor their health after returning home. If they develop symptoms, they should seek medical attention immediately and inform healthcare providers about their travel history to affected areas.
4
What to Do If You Suspect You Have Contracted Mpox
If you suspect you have contracted Mpox, seek medical attention immediately. Inform healthcare professionals of your symptoms and potential exposure history. While en route to medical facilities and during the visit, wear a surgical mask and cover all skin lesions with clothing to minimize the risk of spreading the virus. Avoid close contact with others, practice good hygiene, and refrain from scratching the rash. If diagnosed with Mpox, cooperate with health authorities for isolation and treatment.
5
How to Manage Health for Close Contacts of Mpox Patients
Close contacts of confirmed Mpox patients should undergo 21 days of health monitoring under the guidance of public health professionals. During this period, they should avoid close contact with others and refrain from donating blood. Daily temperature and symptom checks should be reported accurately. If symptoms such as fever, rash, or swollen lymph nodes develop, seek medical care promptly and inform the healthcare provider of any potential exposure. Again, during visits to healthcare facilities, wearing a mask and long clothing to cover skin lesions is essential.
Source: 中国疾控中心, 新京报
If you have any questions about China visa applications(work visa, company registration and more), please contact our visa consultant Lisa, WeChat: AnyHelper_DD.
You Might Also Be Interested In Our Platform AnyShanghai
2024 Survival Book in China
Shanghai Hongqiao Airport Announces Operational Change for 2024!
For the latest jobs&policy updates, scan the code below to follow AnyJob!
We have 30+ advisors so far,
Scan code above to view more advisors for other fields!
Promotion Services for expat-friendly businesses. Learn more by contacting us.
Get news, tips, and events in China
Connect with expat communities and industry experts
Click "Wow" if you like this article
No comments:
Post a Comment