The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has issued a Level 2 Travel Health alert due to the ongoing outbreak of mpox, formerly known as monkeypox.
This Health Alert, issued by the U. S. Embassy in Abuja August 15 2024, came as the World Health Organization (WHO) has declared the multi-country outbreak of mpox a Public Health Emergency of International Concern, underscoring the need for heightened awareness and precautions.
The CDC also issued a warning to travelers to take precautions against the viral disease and should avoid close contact with sick people, especially those with skin or genital lesions, to prevent contracting Mpox.
The agency also advised against contact with dead or live wild animals, such as small mammals like rodents and non-human primates, as well as eating or preparing meat from wild game or using products derived from wild animals.
It added that travelers should avoid contact with contaminated materials used by sick people or that came into contact with infected animals.
While the risk to the general public is low, the CDC urged individuals to seek medical care immediately if they develop a new, unexplained skin rash, with or without fever and chills, and to avoid contact with others.
“Risk to the general public is low, but you should seek medical care immediately if you develop new, unexplained skin rash (lesions on any part of the body), with or without fever and chills, and avoid contact with others.”, the statement said.
The CDC also recommended that patients should call ahead before visiting a healthcare facility if possible by informing staff members of concerns about Mpox if symptoms are present.
The CDC advised those who are sick and could have Mpox to delay travel by public transportation until cleared by a healthcare professional or public health officials.
