Saudi Arabia is stepping up its efforts to monitor and respond to the monkeypox virus, also known as “Mpox,” following its designation as an international health emergency.
The Saudi Ministry of Health has activated several measures to enhance its readiness for surveillance, investigation, and response.
As part of these precautions, the Ministry has implemented visual screening systems at international entry points for travelers from countries where the monkeypox virus has been reported.
Additionally, a secure pathway for handling suspected cases has been established. The Ministry has also conducted simulations to ensure preparedness for potential outbreaks.
The Saudi Ministry of Health has updated its medical guidelines and provided training for healthcare professionals.
These guidelines cover disease identification, reporting mechanisms, risk assessment, and infection control protocols.
Diagnostic capabilities, including genetic sequencing, have been bolstered at the Public Health Authority’s laboratory in Riyadh, with samples being transported via accredited carriers to ensure their safety.
The Ministry has also secured sufficient supplies of vaccines, medications, and diagnostic tools, along with personal protective equipment for healthcare workers, to ensure a comprehensive response to any emergencies.
Educational efforts are being intensified to inform healthcare professionals about the virus, its symptoms, and preventive measures. Public awareness campaigns are also being conducted to advise travelers to avoid unnecessary travel to affected countries and to promote general disease prevention, including sexual health precautions.
On August 14, the World Health Organization (WHO) declared monkeypox a public health emergency for the second time, with the first declaration occurring in July 2022.
This recent declaration was prompted by a more transmissible strain of the virus identified in Eastern Congo, which has spread to neighboring African countries.
The WHO’s declaration aims to mobilize international support for affected countries in Africa and to increase the production of vaccines, medications, and diagnostic tools.
Unlike respiratory viruses that spread rapidly, monkeypox is transmitted through close contact, particularly during sexual activities, and differs significantly in its transmission dynamics.
The Saudi Ministry of Health reported that all confirmed cases of the current strain have been identified in specific African countries, with only one case detected outside Africa in Sweden involving a traveler who contracted the virus in Congo.
There have been no reported cases of the current strain in Saudi Arabia to date.
Monkeypox, or “Mpox,” is a viral infection characterized by skin rashes, high fever, and swollen lymph nodes.
It spreads through close physical contact, including sexual practices and prolonged exposure to infected individuals. In some African countries, the virus also spreads from infected animals to humans.
Symptoms of monkeypox include a distinctive rash that may cover the hands, feet, chest, face, and genital area, along with fever, swollen lymph nodes, exhaustion, muscle and back pain, headache, and sore throat. The incubation period for symptoms ranges from 3 to 21 days. People at risk are those with close contact with an infected person or contaminated items.
To prevent the spread of the virus, individuals with monkeypox are advised to isolate themselves from the onset of the rash until all lesions have healed and dried.
The Ministry of Health treats the monkeypox virus similarly to other sexually transmitted infections concerning prevention, diagnosis, and treatment. However, the current strain is more infectious and widespread, with no cases reported outside the affected African countries.
While most cases of monkeypox resolve on their own, rare complications can occur, especially in newborns, pregnant women, and immunocompromised individuals.
Complications may include secondary infections, encephalitis, myocarditis, or pneumonia. The fatality rate varies from 0.1% in the general population to 10% in those with severe immunodeficiency.
In suspected cases, individuals should wear masks, cover lesions with dry clothing, and seek medical attention. Diagnostic testing typically takes about 24 hours, during which the patient will be isolated in a healthcare facility.
If the test is positive, isolation continues until all lesions have dried, with potential vaccination for close contacts to prevent further spread. Treatment generally involves symptom management, with antiviral medication available for certain cases based on medical indications.
