By Sue-Ann Wayow
SECRETARY of Tobago’s Division of Health, Wellness and Social Protection (DHWSP), Dr Faith B Yisrael is promising a robust and proactive approach in the prevention of Mpox (monkeypox).
A meeting was convened on Thursday with all stakeholders from the DHWSP and the Tobago Regional Health Authority (TRHA), to address the unfolding Mpox situation in the country.
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Trinidad has already recorded its two cases this week.
A release from the Division stated, “This meeting focused on case identification, isolation/quarantine protocols, treatment, vaccination and education.”
Planning for the threat of Mpox began last year when the outbreak started and cases had been identified in neighbouring Caribbean islands.
The protocols for healthcare providers, businesses, tourism stakeholders and port health, which were developed last year, were reviewed on Wednesday and these are being updated and will be rolled out to provide the most effective public health response for the island, the release stated.
Dr B Yisrael said, “A robust and proactive approach is being taken with a focus on infection prevention and control. Sensitization of the general public was done a year ago with respect to Mpox but now that Trinidad and Tobago has recorded two cases within two days, we will be ramping up our response to this viral infection.” She also confirmed that there were no cases of Mpox in Tobago at this time.
Mpox was declared a Public Health Emergency of International Concern (PHEIC) by the WHO on July 23, 2022, following a multi-country outbreak of the disease. Some common symptoms of Mpox are: rash, fever sore throat, headache, muscle aches, back pain, low energy and swollen lymph nodes. Persons experiencing any of these symptoms and who believe they have been exposed to someone with Mpox are urged to visit their nearest healthcare professional or call 800-HEAL (4325) TOLL FREE.
