Kazakhstan's Ministry of Healthcare issues statement on monkeypox

Tengrinews.kz - The Ministry of Healthcare of Kazakhstan has provided an update on the global situation with monkeypox and outlined measures taken to prevent the spread of the infection within the country.
According to the Ministry, no cases of monkeypox have been reported in Kazakhstan to date.

"The Ministry of Healthcare has implemented necessary precautions to prevent the entry of the infection into the country. Control measures have been intensified at sanitary and quarantine points, including airports and border crossings. Special attention is being paid to individuals arriving from countries where monkeypox cases have been reported," the statement said.

To prevent potential spread, the Ministry of Health advises citizens planning to travel to endemic countries to follow these precautions:

Avoid contact with sick individuals and wild animals, as the virus can be transmitted through infected monkeys, rats, and other animals.
Use protective gear when handling animals or animal products.
Practice good hygiene, including regular hand washing and the use of disinfectants, to reduce the risk of transmission.
Refrain from visiting countries with reported monkeypox cases unless absolutely necessary.
Seek medical attention immediately if symptoms such as rash, high fever, or other related symptoms appear.


"The Ministry of Health is closely monitoring the epidemiological situation and is prepared to respond swiftly to any changes," the statement added.

This follows reports of the first death from monkeypox in Japan and tightened screening of tourists in Bali due to a virus outbreak. In Africa, officials are considering declaring a state of emergency in response to the rising number of cases. First case of the mpox virus detected outside Africa.
According to scientists, the monkeypox virus has mutated, making it easier to spread among humans. The virus is transmitted from rodents like mice and squirrels or from infected humans. Symptoms typically appear within 5-21 days of exposure and include high fever, headaches, muscle pain, swollen lymph nodes, fatigue, chills, and blister-like rashes.
There is no specific treatment for monkeypox, but antiviral medications are used to manage the symptoms.