Port health officials have developed an outbreak preparedness plan at South Africas ports of entry to deal with monkeypox (Mpox).
Mpox is an infectious disease found in West and Central Africa. It is caused by a virus and can cause a painful rash, enlarged lymph nodes and fever. It is spread by physical contact. Most people fully recover, but some become very ill.
In response to the 13 cases in South Africa that have been confirmed by the National Department of Health, the Border Management Authority (BMA) is implementing screening processes for travellers entering the country.
The Commissioner of South Africas Border Management Authority, Dr Michael Masiapato , has said that the first phase of screening occurs when the conveyance operator (ie the captain of the aircraft and crew members) provides a general declaration of health, declaring that no travellers have reported or were found to be ill on board, in terms of International Health Regulations.
The second process is thermal screening, which checks passengers temperatures. Should the traveller present with an elevated temperature, they will be isolated and assisted with further screening by Port Health.
