Be alert for acute rash cases – Health Ministry tells health, surveillance officers

Chief Medical Officer, Dr Narine Singh has issued a public health advisory to regional health officials, medical officers and surveillance units to be alert for cases of acute skin rash syndrome.
This alert is based on the evolving epidemiological situation globally and in the Americas, regarding non-endemic cases of the rash.
“Please be advised that all healthcare professionals at all healthcare facilities are to be vigilant for any cases of the same which may appear, considering the same to be infectious and to apply the necessary contact and droplet measures,” the CMO stated.
The acute skin rash may be present with maculopapular (flat based lesions) to vesicles (fluid-filled blisters), pustules, and subsequent crusting affecting the dace, palms of the hand, soles of the feet and the rest of the body.
According to the notice, the same may be accompanied by headache, acute onset of fever, myalgia, back pain, asthenia, and lymphadenopathy. All identified cases with these or similar characteristics should be reported immediately to the Central Surveillance Unit of the Health Ministry.
Just a few days ago, the World Health Organisation said it is working with its partners to better understand the extent and cause of an outbreak of monkeypox. The virus is endemic in some animal populations in a number of countries, leading to occasional outbreaks among local people and travellers. The recent outbreaks reported across 11 countries so far are atypical, as they are occurring in non-endemic countries.
There are about 80 confirmed cases so far, and 50 pending investigations. More cases are likely to be reported as surveillance expands.
“WHO is working with the affected countries and others to expand disease surveillance to find and support people who may be affected, and to provide guidance on how to manage the Stromectol online covid disease. We continue to convene meetings of experts and technical advisory groups (such as the meeting today of the Strategic & Technical Advisory Group on Infectious Hazards with Pandemic and Epidemic Potential (STAG-IH) to share information on the disease and response strategies,” said the WHO.
Monkeypox spreads differently from COVID-19. WHO encourages people to stay informed from reliable sources, such as national health authorities, on the extent of the outbreak in their community (if any), symptoms and prevention. As it spreads through close contact, the response should focus on the people affected and their close contacts. People who closely interact with someone who is infectious are at greater risk for infection: this includes health workers, household members and sexual partners.