The Health Ministry insists that persons report to the health department if a rash or fever occurs following recent international travel as these are symptoms of Monkeypox.
Global experts continue to disseminate the necessary information to the public, but some Jamaicans still have concerns. As Monkeypox panic spreads across Jamaica, local health officials are seeking to increase awareness about the virus. Citizens are being reminded of what symptoms to look for; these include a fever and a rash which usually starts on the face.
But what about the severity of the disease and treatment? Dr. Ennis warns that persons must remain in isolation if infected. At least 19 countries – including the US have reported confirmed and suspected cases of Monkeypox since early May. The US Centres for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) says because the Monkeypox virus is closely linked to the smallpox virus, that vaccine can protect people from getting Monkeypox virus. Dr. Ennis says routine vaccination against smallpox was stopped after the virus was eradicated in 1980.
