Mpox(Monkeypox) Virus 2024 | What Travelers Need to Know

The world often witnesses national emergencies because of medical concerns or the disease that has rapidly spread in countries and become a matter of concern. The human population and the different health organizations have faced such challenges and come up with solutions that are beneficial for everyone. We have just ended the battle against COVID-19, which has put the world on hold. The recent pandemic concerns monkeypox, which has spread over 115 countries and does not seem to stop. The deep and worst affected are the Democratic Republic of Congo and neighboring countries. 

It started in the year 2022, and according to the CDC(centers for disease control and prevention) 99,176 cases were recorded, from which 208 people died from 1st January 2022 to 30th June 2024. 

What is Monkeypox?

It was initially called monkeypox but was later renamed Mpox by the World Health Organization because it was causing racial impact in some communities. It is a zoonosis, a disease that drives from animals to humans. The mpox virus has been found in squirrels, dormice, Gambian poached rates, and some species of monkeys.

What are the Monkeypox symptoms?

When we discuss the disease, the most important thing is to discuss its symptoms. It's important to catch the disease at an early stage, and for that, you must be aware of the symptoms listed below:

• A continuous mild fever. 
• A Rash that may last for two to four weeks.
• Headache followed by muscle pain, backache, swollen lymph nodes, and low energy. 
• A rash could be severe that can affect even the face, throat, eyes, mouth, and anal regions. 
• The soles of the feet, groin, genital, and palms of the hands will also be affected. 
• The fever, with time, and infections get severe, which impacts the body profoundly. 

How is Monkeypox transmitted?

Monkeypox is a viral infection that has been transferred from animals to humans. This can further be transmitted through close contact with the person infected with pox. If you have been in contact with their bodily fluids, rashes, and scabs, then it can affect you. This disease can also spread through contaminated objects, respiratory droplets, or the infected pregnant woman's child.

Who is at risk for monkeypox?

Anyone who is in close contact with someone having monkeypox is definitely in danger. You can be affected no matter how healthy your life is. If you want to stay safe, it is important to maintain a proper distance from people who have this disease. Also read World Health Organization’s Latest Update on the 2024 Outbreak

What to do if you have Mpox symptoms?

If you have symptoms of Mpox or got diseased, then you should follow the guidelines that are mentioned below. Following the given guidelines will help you to stop the spread to other people around, and you can keep them safe and healthy: 

• Keep cleaning the objects and surfaces that surround you. Cleaning is extremely important. 
• You should avoid touching anything that surrounds you. 
• If you have a rash, cover it properly with gauze or bandages so it can be limited and does not spread. 
• Wash your hands regularly. 
• Maintain patience and do not touch the rashes. 
• Keep your rashes clean and dry. 
• The medication is prescribed by the doctors. 
• Do not expose your body to the sun. 
• Stay in touch with your family and friends by phone or FaceTime, or do what you enjoy, as taking care of your mental health is important. 

What can travelers do to avoid getting Mpox?

Traveling during any endemic is difficult as at the back of the head the impact of the disease remains. Whenever you are traveling on the flight then, there are some precautions you need to follow, so you can be safe and healthy.

Guidelines for Travelers: Let us look at the guidelines you should follow at the time of traveling:

• You should avoid close contact with people, special strangers, and the ones having rashes, mild fever, or any other symptom of mpox. 
• Make sure that the clothes, blankets, or any other material you carry does not belong to the infected people. 
• Try not to touch random objects during the travel and try to remain alert all the time. 
• Carry medicines if you are having any previous health issues.
• You should carry medicines for pox as, in some cases, the disease can go away on its own after some symptoms. 
• Try to stay isolated from the people who are suffering from this disease. 

Can I travel if I have a monkeypox?

When you catch a disease that has been affecting large masses and creating chaos all over the world. There is no reason that you would prefer to travel with Monkeypox. If the airline is aware that you have monkeypox symptoms, then they will not allow you to travel with them. If you are completely diseased with this medical condition, then there is no way you will be permitted to board the plane.