Chinese customs authorities have implemented stricter surveillance measures at ports of entry to curb the importation of the mpox virus, formerly known as monkeypox, following a global rise in cases. The announcement, reported by Xinhua News Agency on Friday, comes as part of China’s efforts to prevent the virus from entering the country.
The General Administration of Customs (GAC) stated that individuals arriving from countries and regions with confirmed mpox cases must declare their health status if they have been exposed to the virus or are experiencing symptoms. These symptoms include fever, headache, back pain, muscle pain, swollen lymph nodes, and rashes.
Upon entry, affected travelers will undergo medical assessments, including sampling and testing, as per the prescribed procedures. The GAC emphasized that this is a necessary step to prevent the virus from spreading within China’s borders.
In addition to screening travelers, customs authorities will also sanitize vehicles, containers, and goods from regions where mpox cases have been reported. This measure aims to eliminate any potential contamination that could lead to an outbreak in China.
The new regulations, which took effect immediately on August 15, will remain in place for six months. This timeframe allows authorities to monitor the situation closely and adjust protocols as needed to protect public health.
The World Health Organization (WHO) declared mpox a public health emergency of international concern on Wednesday, underscoring the virus’s potential for further international transmission. The WHO’s declaration highlights the urgency of coordinated global efforts to manage and contain the virus.
Recent data from the Africa Centres for Disease Control and Prevention reveal a significant increase in mpox cases, with over 2,000 new cases reported in Africa within the past week alone. Since January 2022, the continent has recorded approximately 38,465 mpox cases and 1,456 deaths, affecting at least 16 countries across all five regions.
As the global community grapples with the rising number of mpox cases, China’s heightened border controls are part of broader efforts to mitigate the spread of the virus. The GAC’s proactive measures reflect the country’s commitment to safeguarding public health and preventing another outbreak from reaching its shores.
