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VI on ‘heightened vigilance’ following detection of Monkeypox cases in region

-Acting Chief Medical Officer Dr. Ronald E. Georges says territory prepared to respond to any potential cases
Acting Chief Medical Officer, Dr. Ronald E. Georges said that while there is no confirmed or suspected cases of Monkeypox in the VI, it is critical that the territory raises its awareness and enters into a state of heightened vigilance and readiness so that the it can respond quickly to reduce human-to-human transmission. Photo: GIS/Facebook
Monkeypox, according to the Dr Geroges is a viral disease that primarily occurs in countries of Central and West Africa. Its symptoms are similar, but less severe than Smallpox. Photo: Internet Source
Monkeypox, according to the Dr Geroges is a viral disease that primarily occurs in countries of Central and West Africa. Its symptoms are similar, but less severe than Smallpox. Photo: Internet Source
ROAD TOWN, Tortola, VI – The Virgin Islands (VI) Ministry of Health and Social Development has increased its infectious disease surveillance in response to the detection of Monkeypox cases in the Caribbean Region.

This is according to a July 8, 2022, release from the Ministry which states that there is a high risk of disease introduction to the VI due to increased travel, in conjunction with the Territory’s return to pre-pandemic protocols.

Acting Chief Medical Officer, Dr. Ronald E. Georges said that while there is no confirmed or suspected cases of Monkeypox in the VI, it is critical that the territory raises its awareness and enters into a state of heightened vigilance and readiness so that the it can respond quickly to reduce human-to-human transmission.

Monkeypox, according to the Dr Geroges is a viral disease that primarily occurs in countries of Central and West Africa. Its symptoms are similar, but less severe than Smallpox.

Transmission primary through human to human contact 

“The current mode of transmission is predominantly through close human-to-human contact. Direct contact with infectious skin lesions, blood or body fluids and respiratory droplets (e.g., coughs and sneezes) and handling of contaminated clothing, linens or bedding of those used by an infected or sick person can also serve as sources of infection,” Dr. Georges added.

If infected, it can take between 5-21 days before symptoms appear. First symptoms are typically flu-like (fever, headache, back pain, muscle aches, exhaustion), with swelling of the lymph nodes. This then progresses to a widespread rash on the face and body (this can include the genitals). The red bumps eventually turn to pus-filled blisters that crust over.

Dr. Georges further stated that persons exhibiting symptoms of Monkeypox should call ahead before visiting their medical practitioner for examination and advice, especially if there is recent history of travel or contact with a person who recently traveled.

Jamaica on July 6, 2022, confirmed its first case of the disease with the Bahamas confirmed its first case on June 9, 2022.

12 Responses to “VI on ‘heightened vigilance’ following detection of Monkeypox cases in region”

  • Pook (09/07/2022, 14:02) Like (8) Dislike (0) Reply
    Testing upon entry please or take a test before the entry the country
  • wait until the gay law is passed (09/07/2022, 14:38) Like (8) Dislike (19) Reply
    It is inevitable with all these queers living here
  • yardie (09/07/2022, 14:39) Like (9) Dislike (16) Reply
    A botty bwoy disease dat!
  • pat (09/07/2022, 14:47) Like (0) Dislike (3) Reply
    Oh no this again
  • here we go again (09/07/2022, 14:52) Like (36) Dislike (2) Reply
    The agenda continues. Let Cows in the road Malone take his 7th booster shot and see if it works
  • Vincies Drink Gramazone (09/07/2022, 15:54) Like (3) Dislike (7) Reply
    Didnt know Jam down has bwatty boi dem. I know VI got nuff and nuff dyke but still, Yard fi queer?
    • @Vincies Drink... (12/07/2022, 11:51) Like (1) Dislike (0) Reply
      Little known fact, Jamaica has had one of the largest gay population the entire Caribbean. Shocking to learn since some behave so homophobic.
  • @ DEM VIN C (09/07/2022, 18:51) Like (0) Dislike (1) Reply
    A D WHAT THEM OTHER CARIBBEAN BROTHERS AND SISTERS COUNTRY ARE KNOW FOR ? PLEASE ENLIGHTEN US ABOUT THEIR CULTURAL THING
  • Really (09/07/2022, 21:48) Like (8) Dislike (2) Reply
    Are the ???? going to wake up. The new said it's a sexually transmitted disease so who's having sex with monkeys to contact that made up virus. WOW.i think I'm living in the land of dummies. All these disease are coming from the vaccine. The old world is ending so all kinds of diseases, sicknesses everything will be in these times. Keep listening to the Elites and you will be on the wide road burning in brimstones
  • TJ (11/07/2022, 10:19) Like (0) Dislike (0) Reply
    Why are still testing for Covid on entry? We have bigger issues to deal with. Get rid of the Covid testing at ports as it is now pointless. Focus on the great threats.


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