2022–2023 mpox outbreak in Singapore

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2022–2023 mpox outbreak in Singapore
DiseaseMpox
Virus strainMonkeypox virus
LocationSingapore
Index caseJune 2022
Confirmed cases18
Deaths
0
Government website
Ministry of Health, Singapore


The 2022–2023 mpox outbreak in Singapore refers to the occurrence of mpox cases in Singapore during the global mpox outbreak that began in 2022. The outbreak in Singapore was part of a larger international spread of the Monkeypox virus, which was first identified in humans in 1970.

Background[edit | edit source]

Mpox, also known as monkeypox, is a viral zoonotic disease caused by the Monkeypox virus, a member of the Orthopoxvirus genus. The disease is endemic in parts of Central and West Africa, but the 2022 outbreak marked a significant increase in cases outside these regions.

Timeline[edit | edit source]

June 2022[edit | edit source]

The first case of mpox in Singapore during the 2022 outbreak was reported in June 2022. The patient was a 42-year-old British national who had traveled to Singapore for work. He developed symptoms and was subsequently diagnosed with mpox.

July 2022[edit | edit source]

Following the first case, the Ministry of Health (MOH) in Singapore implemented contact tracing and isolation measures to prevent further spread. By the end of July, several more cases were identified, primarily among travelers.

August 2022 to March 2023[edit | edit source]

The number of cases remained relatively low, with sporadic reports of new infections. The MOH continued to monitor the situation closely, providing updates and guidance to healthcare providers and the public.

Public Health Response[edit | edit source]

The Singaporean government, through the MOH, took several measures to control the outbreak:

  • Contact Tracing: Rigorous contact tracing was conducted for all confirmed cases to identify and isolate potential secondary cases.
  • Vaccination: The MOH considered the use of smallpox vaccines, which are known to be effective against mpox, for high-risk groups.
  • Public Awareness: Information campaigns were launched to educate the public about the symptoms of mpox and preventive measures.

Impact[edit | edit source]

The impact of the mpox outbreak in Singapore was limited due to the swift response by health authorities. There were no reported deaths, and the healthcare system was able to manage the cases effectively.

Also see[edit | edit source]

References[edit | edit source]


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