Health Protection Agency (HPA) has stated that it is taking measures against the spread of Monkeypox, as there is a slight chance that the virus could be discovered in the Maldives. The agency stated that a case of Monkeypox has not yet been recorded in the Maldives or neighbouring countries but that health measures are being taken to respond to any potential outbreak, as a large number of travellers visit the Maldives.
World Health Organisation (WHO) has stated that around 92 confirmed cases and 28 suspected cases of monkeypox have been reported from 12 countries that are not endemic for the virus, adding that it expects to identify more cases of Monkeypox as it expands surveillance in countries where the disease is not typically found. WHO stated that the available information suggests that human-to-human transmission is occurring among people in close physical contact with cases who are symptomatic.
Monkeypox is an infectious disease that is usually mild, and is endemic in parts of west and central Africa. Transmission of the virus among humans is limited, but it can happen through close skin contact, air droplets, bodily fluids, and virus-contaminated objects, and can be contained through such measures as self-isolation and hygiene.
The incubation period of monkeypox is usually from 6 to 13 days but can range from 5 to 21 days. Within 1 to 3 days after the appearance of fever, infected individuals develop a rash, often beginning on the face then spreading to other parts of the body. Currently, there is no proven, safe treatment for the monkeypox virus infection.