Medical providers in Cyprus are on excessive alert to handle any potential instances of Mpox (monkeypox), the director of public well being providers, Elisavet Constantinou, mentioned on Thursday. Talking to the Cyprus Information Company (CNA), she famous that 5 instances have been recognized in Cyprus since 2022.
Constantinou emphasised that the danger of a widespread Mpox outbreak in Cyprus stays low, however all needed precautions are being taken. “We assess our readiness every day,” she mentioned. “Since there’s a public well being emergency alert, we’re obliged to handle it.”
She additional defined that the well being ministry is actively evaluating the nation’s preparedness by assessing out there sources and updating protocols. Nonetheless, you will need to stay vigilant and the ministry is specializing in preventive measures, she mentioned.
Vaccinations in opposition to Mpox can be found at grownup vaccination centres in all cities throughout Cyprus. These vaccines may be administered every day, making them accessible to anybody who needs to be vaccinated, Constantinou added.
Reiterating the low threat of widespread transmission, she famous that solely 5 instances have been recorded in Cyprus since 2022.
Moreover, Constantinou supplied steerage for travellers planning to go to areas experiencing Mpox outbreaks, primarily in Africa. She really helpful that travellers get vaccinated earlier than their journeys and take precautions to keep away from contact with people who could have rashes or signs of the illness.
Addressing the nation’s preparedness, Constantinou confirmed that Cyprus has a adequate inventory of vaccines and pharmaceutical merchandise to handle potential instances. Diagnostic testing for Mpox is already being performed at two facilities: the Nicosia Normal Hospital’s Microbiology lab and the Cyprus Institute of Neurology and Genetics.
Whereas the danger of contracting mpox stays low for individuals who haven’t travelled to affected areas, Constantinou urged weak populations, together with the aged and immunocompromised people, to take additional precautions and keep away from crowded locations.
The World Well being Organisation declared Mpox a public well being emergency of worldwide concern, as instances have been detected outdoors Africa in Europe and Asia.
Earlier this week, Constantinou mentioned Cyprus is absolutely ready to cope with mpox instances, with adequate vaccines out there for everybody.
