The Centers for Disease Control (CDC) yesterday announced new guidelines to respond to a local mpox outbreak, allowing people who are suspected or confirmed to have the disease to self-isolate if they report no severe symptoms, are not in a vulnerable group and can reside in a separate room.
The protocols for mpox — a condition formerly known as monkeypox — were announced to healthcare professionals on Thursday.
People suspected to be infected by mpox, but deemed to be at low risk, should practice self-health management until test results are obtained, the CDC said.
Photo courtesy of the Centers for Disease Control
Reporting of suspected and confirmed cases remains mandatory, it added.
Mpox patients who do not need hospitalization must complete two stages of self-health management before being allowed to return to daily life activities, the CDC said.
During the first stage, cases in isolation must remain at home, unless in need of supplies or medicine, or if visiting a hospital for an urgent medical need, it said.
When outside, a person with a confirmed case must wear a mask and fully cover rashes with bandages or clothing, avoiding public transportation as much as possible, especially during rush hours, the agency said.
The second stage begins after being free of fever for 72 hours, free of rashes for 48 hours, having no oral membrane symptoms and no scabbing over old rashes on the face, arms or hands.
During this stage, those recovering from the infection can go to work or school, and make necessary outings from home, although the measures regarding masks, clothing and public transportation still apply, the CDC said.
After being free of fever for another 72 hours, free of rashes for 48 hours, and with no other of the above symptoms, a person can be considered free of the disease and return to regular life, it said.
The CDC reported that 22,235 people had registered for mpox vaccines via the government platform as of Thursday.
The deadline for registration passed yesterday.
Separately, influenza vaccines are to be added to a subsidy scheme, making the shots available for free to residents and caretakers at community-based care centers for people with mental and physical disabilities, the Ministry of Health and Welfare said yesterday.
The Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices put forward the measure due to concerns that residents in community-based care could be vulnerable to sickness due to their diminished capacity, the ministry said.
The plan would make fully subsidized flu shots available to 2,000 people, the ministry said.
The subsidy scheme for the flu vaccine includes adults aged 50 and older, medical workers, pregnant women, the very young, educators dealing with young children and the immunocompromised, among others, it said.
The ministry and other government offices are to procure an estimated 6.99 million doses by the end of the year, it said.
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