Safe Travel: How to Prevent Monkeypox During Your Journey

How to Prevent Monkeypox and Facts You Must Know

Traveloka TH

27 Aug 2024 - 4 min read

When thinking about travel, many envision adventure and relaxation, whether domestically or abroad. However, today’s travel comes with the need for health precautions, particularly regarding infectious diseases with potential for widespread outbreaks. One disease that warrants special attention right now is “Monkeypox” or Mpox. Let's explore what Monkeypox is and how to protect yourself during its outbreak, guided by the prevention methods recommended by the Department of Disease Control.

How to Prevent Monkeypox During Your Journey & 5 Things You Need To Know About Monkeypox

What is Monkeypox? Basic Knowledge and Transmission

Monkeypox (Mpox) is a viral infection caused by the Monkeypox virus. It is primarily found in wild animals such as monkeys and rodents. Originally discovered in Central and West Africa, Monkeypox has recently been reported in multiple regions worldwide, making it crucial for travelers to be informed and take preventive measures against this disease.

The Monkeypox virus can spread from animals to humans through direct contact with blood, bodily fluids, or lesions from infected animals. Additionally, the virus can be transmitted from person to person through direct contact with skin lesions, rashes, or contaminated personal items such as clothing, bedding, and other materials.

Symptoms of Monkeypox

The symptoms of Monkeypox resemble those of smallpox but are generally less severe. Common symptoms include:

High fever: Fever is often the first sign of Monkeypox infection.

Rashes and pustules: Rashes usually start on the face and then spread to other parts of the body, particularly the palms and soles.

Headache and muscle pain: Patients often experience muscle aches and fatigue.

Swollen lymph nodes: Unlike smallpox, swollen lymph nodes are a common symptom in Monkeypox.

These symptoms typically appear within 5-21 days after exposure and can last for about 2-4 weeks. Although less severe than smallpox, Monkeypox still requires careful prevention and monitoring.

Preventing Monkeypox During Travel

In today’s travel context, beyond COVID-19, serious consideration must be given to preventing Monkeypox (Mpox). Traveling to various regions, both within and outside your country, may increase the risk of Monkeypox infection, particularly in areas where outbreaks have been reported. Following these guidelines can help reduce the risk of Monkeypox and ensure safer travel:

Avoid direct contact with wild animals: Refrain from touching wild animals or those that might carry the Monkeypox virus. Travelers should avoid visiting markets that sell wild animals or places where wild animals live. Also, avoid consuming undercooked meat.

Avoid contact with infected individuals: If you encounter someone exhibiting symptoms of Monkeypox, especially those with rashes or pustules, avoid direct contact with their skin or personal items such as clothing, bedding, or towels.

Maintain hand hygiene: Frequent hand washing with soap and water is an effective way to prevent Monkeypox, especially after touching public surfaces or high-risk areas. If soap and water aren’t available, use hand sanitizer with at least 60% alcohol.

Wear a mask: Wearing a mask can help prevent the transmission of Monkeypox via respiratory droplets, especially in areas with outbreaks or crowded places.

Avoid sharing personal items: Use personal items such as clothing and towels exclusively to reduce the risk of Monkeypox transmission.

Get vaccinated: Vaccines used to prevent smallpox can also prevent Monkeypox in some cases. High-risk individuals should consult a doctor about receiving the Monkeypox vaccine before traveling.

Stay informed about the Monkeypox situation: Monitoring updates from local health authorities in your destination area is crucial. Travelers should be aware of the Monkeypox outbreak situation in the area and follow public health recommendations diligently.

The Monkeypox virus can spread from animals to humans through direct contact with blood, bodily fluids, or lesions from infected animals.

Self-Care After Travel

After returning from a trip, whether domestically or abroad, health care remains essential. If you start showing symptoms associated with Monkeypox, such as high fever, rashes, or body aches, seek medical attention immediately and inform the healthcare provider of your travel history. This allows for timely evaluation and appropriate treatment, ensuring safety from the ongoing Monkeypox outbreak.

5 Key Facts to Know About Monkeypox

Transmission and Spread of Monkeypox Monkeypox can spread from animals to humans and from humans to humans through direct contact with infected wild animals like monkeys or rodents, as well as through contact with bodily fluids, rashes, or contaminated personal items.

Symptoms to Watch For The symptoms of Monkeypox resemble those of smallpox but are less severe. Key symptoms include high fever, rashes and pustules, headache, muscle pain, and swollen lymph nodes. These symptoms usually appear 5-21 days after exposure and can last for about 2-4 weeks.

Preventing Monkeypox Infection Prevention includes avoiding contact with wild or potentially infected animals, avoiding contact with infected individuals, maintaining hand hygiene, wearing masks, and avoiding sharing personal items with others.

Monkeypox Vaccination Vaccines used for smallpox can protect against Monkeypox in some cases, particularly for those at high risk. It’s advisable to consult a doctor before traveling to discuss vaccination options.

Treatment and Self-Care for Monkeypox Currently, there is no specific treatment for Monkeypox. Treatment usually involves managing symptoms, such as taking antipyretics, pain relievers, and receiving appropriate medical care. If you suspect you have Monkeypox, seek medical attention immediately and provide details of your travel history and potential exposure.

Monkeypox (Mpox) is an infectious disease that all travelers should be aware of and rigorously prepare to prevent. By following recommended prevention measures, such as avoiding contact with wild animals and infected individuals, maintaining cleanliness, avoiding travel to high-risk areas, and staying informed about the Monkeypox situation, you can reduce the risk of infection and ensure safer travel experiences. While travel is an experience to cherish, health and safety should never be overlooked.

This information is based on guidance from the Department of Disease Control and can be further explored through their detailed guidelines on Monkeypox prevention and control. For more detailed information and updates on Monkeypox, please refer to their official publications and resources here.