Bangladesh puts ports on alert against monkeypox

The Directorate General of Health Services (DGHS) has issued warnings to all ports of entry into Bangladesh against the recent global outbreak of monkeypox, a viral infection.

DGHS spokesperson and Director (Disease Control) Dr Md Nazmul Islam confirmed the matter on Saturday night.

He said, “We have asked all ports, including airports and land ports, to remain vigilant. If a suspect arrives, he should be identified and sent to an infectious disease hospital.”

The DGHS official also said that there is no need for people to panic.

“We are monitoring the overall situation of the virus and will take data from all over the world. We will take whatever action is required,” he added.

Monkeypox is usually a mild viral illness, characterised by symptoms of fever as well as a distinctive bumpy rash.

The virus, which causes distinctive pustules but is rarely fatal, is endemic to parts of central and west Africa.

In recent weeks, cases have been detected in Britain, France, Germany, Belgium, Italy, Portugal, Spain and Sweden as well as in the United States, Canada and Australia, raising fears the virus may be spreading, reports AFP.

The virus can be transmitted through contact with skin lesions or droplets from a contaminated person, as well as through shared items such as bedding or towels.

Monkeypox usually clears up after two to four weeks, according to the World Health Organization.

What is monkeypox?

Monkeypox is a rare disease that is caused by infection with monkeypox virus. The virus belongs to the Orthopoxvirus genus in the family Poxviridae. The Orthopoxvirus genus also includes variola virus (which causes smallpox), vaccinia virus (used in the smallpox vaccine), and cowpox virus.