In response to the escalating global monkeypox outbreak, the Tamil Nadu Health Department issued a circular on Friday to District Health Officers and Airport Health Officers across the state. The move follows the World Health Organization’s (WHO) recent declaration of a global state of emergency due to the rapid spread of the virus.
The advisory emphasized the immediate need for vigilance, particularly with individuals arriving from regions where monkeypox is prevalent, such as Congo and other Central African countries. Health officials have been directed to implement strict temperature screenings at airports as a preventive measure.
“If anyone is suspected of having monkeypox, it must be reported immediately,” the circular stated, underscoring the urgency of early detection and response. Health officials are also instructed to trace individuals who have arrived from affected countries within the last 21 days to monitor for symptoms.
The Health Department has further advised strengthening the referral systems to hospitals for individuals exhibiting symptoms consistent with monkeypox. This ensures that those potentially infected receive prompt medical attention.
In cases where a monkeypox infection is confirmed, the circular mandates immediate notification to the airline involved to prevent further transmission of the virus among passengers and crew.
The global spread of monkeypox, initially concentrated in several African nations, has now reached other parts of the world, including recent confirmed cases in Sweden. The Tamil Nadu Health Department’s proactive measures aim to contain the spread of the virus within the state and protect public health