The recent declaration by the World Health Organization (WHO) of mpox as a global public health emergency for the second time in two years might raise concerns among Singapore workers and businesses. However, the Ministry of Health (MOH) has assessed that the immediate public health risk to Singapore remains low. Here's how you can stay informed and protect your workplace and community.

 

Understanding the Current Situation

Mpox, formerly known as monkeypox, is a viral disease-causing flu-like symptoms and pus-filled lesions. While Singapore has reported 10 cases since January 2024, all were from the milder Clade II variant. The more severe Clade I variant, responsible for the recent outbreak in parts of Africa, has not yet been detected outside the continent.

Despite this, WHO’s declaration highlights the need for vigilance, especially with the ongoing outbreak in Africa, where the new Clade Ib variant has shown an alarming ability to spread through routine close contact, including sexual contact.

 

What Businesses Should Do

For businesses in Singapore, maintaining a safe workplace is crucial. While the risk of mpox spreading in Singapore is currently low, companies should still take proactive measures:

1. Promote Awareness and Education: Ensure that your employees are informed about mpox, its symptoms, and modes of transmission. Clear communication can help reduce panic and encourage responsible behaviour.
 

2. Implement Infection Control Measures: Reinforce good hygiene practices, such as regular handwashing and the use of hand sanitizers. Ensure that communal areas are regularly disinfected, and provide masks and protective gear for employees in high-contact roles.

3. Monitor Employee Health: Encourage employees to report any symptoms such as fever, rash, or swollen lymph nodes immediately. Early detection and medical consultation can prevent potential outbreaks.

4. Prepare for Contingencies: Develop or update your business continuity plans to address potential disruptions caused by infectious disease outbreaks. This includes remote work policies and procedures for managing a possible increase in absenteeism.

5. Stay Informed: Keep abreast of updates from MOH and WHO regarding the mpox situation. Being informed will enable you to make timely decisions and adjust your response as needed.

 

Protecting Your Workforce

Employees can also take steps to protect themselves and their families:

1. Practise Good Hygiene: Regularly wash hands with soap, use hand sanitizers, and avoid touching your face, especially in public places.

 

2. Avoid High-Risk Situations: While the risk in Singapore is low, it’s wise to avoid contact with individuals who are unwell or showing symptoms of mpox. Also, practise safe behaviours if engaging in close contact with others.

3. Seek Medical Attention Promptly: If you develop any symptoms associated with mpox, such as a sudden onset of fever, rash, or swollen lymph nodes, seek medical advice immediately and inform healthcare providers of your symptoms and any recent travel history.

4. Support Vaccination Efforts: While mass vaccination is not currently recommended in Singapore, those identified as close contacts of confirmed cases may be offered vaccination. Follow MOH guidelines on vaccination and other preventive measures.

 

Moving Forward

While the current risk of mpox spreading in Singapore is low, the situation highlights the importance of preparedness and vigilance. By taking these proactive steps, businesses and workers can help minimise risks and ensure a safe and healthy environment for all.

 

Stay informed, stay prepared, and together, we can navigate these public health challenges effectively.

 

For the latest updates and guidelines on mpox, regularly check the Ministry of Health’s official website and follow their advisories. Additionally, you can visit the World Health Organization's mpox resource page for global updates and preventive measures.

 

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Reference Links:

https://www.straitstimes.com/singapore/s-pore-had-10-milder-mpox-cases-since-january-moh-says-low-risk-of-severe-variant-spreading-here#:~:text=SINGAPORE%20%E2%80%93%20Despite%20the%20World%20Health,is%20assessed%20to%20be%20low.

https://www.straitstimes.com/world/what-is-mpox-how-does-it-spread-and-can-it-be-treated

https://www.channelnewsasia.com/singapore/mpox-monkeypox-emergency-risk-contagious-cna-explains-2794886

https://www.moh.gov.sg/diseases-updates/mpox

https://www.straitstimes.com/world/explainer-why-is-mpox-an-emergency-again-and-how-worried-should-i-be

https://www.straitstimes.com/world/who-declares-mpox-a-global-public-health-emergency-for-second-time-in-two-years?_gl=1*1lmq3g9*_gcl_au*MTQ1NjEwODM2LjE3MjMwNDE3MzI.

https://www.channelnewsasia.com/world/mpox-global-public-emergency-who-drc-4546706