Should Singaporeans be worried over the Monkeypox outbreak?

The World Health Organization (WHO) has declared a public health emergency due to a new outbreak of mpox, formerly known as monkeypox, in several African nations, with at least one case reported outside the continent.

Mpox is a viral infection that can cause symptoms such as fever, rash, and swollen lymph nodes, and in some cases, it can be life-threatening, particularly for those with weakened immune systems.

Health Minister Ong Ye Kung expressed concern over the ongoing mpox outbreak in Africa and other regions, warning that Singapore should expect the virus to eventually reach its shores.

Although the current risk of an outbreak in Singapore and Asia is low due to the lack of direct flights to the affected African areas, the virus is expected to spread to the Middle East and Europe, making Singapore vulnerable due to its international flight connections.

Minister Ong reassured that Singapore's healthcare system is well-equipped to diagnose and manage mpox infections, and close contacts of confirmed cases will be quarantined to prevent further spread.

He urged Singaporeans to stay informed and maintain good health, which can reduce the risk of being affected by the virus.