What You Need to Know About Mpox (Formerly Monkeypox) and Travel Safety
The spread of any disease always raises concern, and when the World Health Organization (WHO) declares an international emergency—like it did with mpox (formerly monkeypox) in August—the urgency grows even more. This year, scientists reported a more dangerous strain of mpox, which has led to a significant rise in cases, particularly in Africa. Here’s what you need to know about mpox, its impact on travel, and how to protect yourself.
What Is Mpox?
Mpox is a viral zoonotic disease, meaning it can be transmitted between animals and humans. It begins with flu-like symptoms, such as:
- Fever
- Headache
- Muscle aches
- Fatigue
These symptoms are followed by a distinctive rash that eventually turns into blisters or sores. While mpox is similar to smallpox, it is usually less severe and has a lower death rate. The disease spreads through close contact with infected people or contaminated objects.
While most cases are found in Africa, mpox can spread globally. Vaccination and isolation remain the key strategies to control outbreaks.
Which Countries Are Affected by Mpox?
As of August, mpox has affected 13 countries in Africa, including:
- Burundi
- Cameroon
- Central African Republic
- Republic of the Congo
- Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC)
- Gabon
- Ivory Coast
- Kenya
- Liberia
- Nigeria
- Rwanda
- South Africa
- Uganda
The Africa Centres for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has called mpox a “public health emergency of continental security.” In addition, the Democratic Republic of the Congo has seen over 18,000 suspected cases and 629 deaths this year alone.
Has Mpox Reached Europe?
Yes, Sweden reported its first imported case of mpox in August. The European Centre for Disease Prevention and Control (ECDC) has since raised the risk level for the more dangerous Clade I strain of mpox from “very low” to “low.” Public health expert Lawrence Gostin stated that one case in Europe could trigger a rapid spread of the disease, likely causing undetected cases to appear across the continent.
Despite this, Dr. Meera Chand, deputy director of the UK Health Security Agency, reassures that the risk to the UK population remains low at the moment. The UK is preparing in case cases arise but hasn’t seen widespread concern yet.
Will There Be Travel Restrictions?
Some countries have started imposing measures in response to mpox:
- China has announced plans to screen travelers from high-risk areas for six months starting in August.
- Thailand has introduced testing and registration requirements for travelers from 42 “risk countries”.
However, African officials argue against these restrictions. Jean Kaseya, head of Africa’s CDC, emphasized that “solidarity” is needed, not bans. He pointed out that travel restrictions would be an unfair repeat of the treatment Africa faced during the COVID-19 pandemic.
Should I Cancel My Trip?
If you’ve already planned a trip to an mpox-affected area, especially in the Democratic Republic of the Congo, it’s important to know the current travel advisories:
- Tour operators may offer flexibility, but cancellations are not guaranteed unless the UK’s Foreign Office specifically advises against travel to certain regions.
- Travel to other affected countries isn’t currently restricted, so unless your destination is specifically impacted, there’s no need to cancel plans at this stage.
What Precautions Should I Take
If you’re traveling to affected areas, here are some key steps to take:
- Vaccination is a good option for travelers visiting affected areas. The ECDC recommends consulting a healthcare provider to see if you qualify for the vaccine, particularly for high-risk individuals (like those under 15 or those with multiple sexual partners).
- Isolation is crucial if you show symptoms to help prevent the spread of the disease.
Will My Travel Insurance Cover Me?
If you’re concerned about mpox, travel insurance can provide some protection:
- Travel insurance policies that cover epidemics should protect you if you fall ill while abroad. Make sure your policy covers at least £2 million in medical costs for European trips and £5 million worldwide.
- However, mpox-related travel to an affected area might impact your insurance options, so it’s important to check with your provider before finalizing your plans.
FAQs: Everything You Need to Know
1. What is mpox and how does it spread?
Mpox is a viral disease that spreads through close contact with infected people or contaminated items. It begins with flu-like symptoms and is followed by a rash and blisters.
2. Which countries are most affected by mpox?
As of August, 13 African countries are seeing the highest number of cases, with the Democratic Republic of the Congo being the hardest-hit.
3. Is there a risk of mpox spreading to Europe?
Yes, Sweden has reported its first case, and the ECDC has raised the risk level. However, public health experts believe that one case in Europe could lead to undetected cases spreading across the continent.
4. Will there be travel restrictions due to mpox?
Some countries, including China and Thailand, have implemented travel restrictions or screening for travelers from high-risk areas. However, African officials argue against such measures.
5. Should I cancel my trip to an affected country?
You don’t need to cancel trips to other affected African nations unless specific travel advisories are issued. Tour operators may offer flexibility for trips to areas like DRC.
6. What precautions should I take when traveling to an affected area?
Consult a healthcare provider about the mpox vaccine, especially if you’re at higher risk. Follow strict hygiene and isolation practices if symptoms appear.
7. Will travel insurance cover me if I get sick with mpox?
Most travel insurance policies will cover illnesses like mpox, but it’s important to check with your provider, as traveling to affected regions may impact coverage.
Conclusion
The outbreak of mpox has raised concerns, particularly in countries that are seeing a high number of cases, like the Democratic Republic of the Congo. While the risk of widespread global spread remains low, it’s important to stay informed and take precautions if you’re planning to travel to affected areas. Vaccination, proper hygiene, and staying updated on travel advisories are key steps to protect yourself. Always check with your insurance provider to ensure coverage while traveling to regions with active outbreaks.