Secretary of the Division of Health, Wellness and Social Protection, Dr. Faith B.Yisrael, convened a meeting earlier today with all key stakeholders from the Division and the Tobago Regional Health Authority, to address the unfolding Mpox (formerly known as Monkeypox) situation in the country.
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 this morning.
These are being updated and will be rolled out to provide the most effective public health response
Secretary B.Yisrael confirmed there are no cases of Mpox in Tobago at this time.
Mpox was declared a Public Health Emergency of International Concern by the WHO on July 23rd 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.