BANDAR SERI BEGAWAN: In response to the spread of mpox in several countries, the Ministry of Health (MoH) has enhanced public health preparedness measures against mpox in Brunei Darussalam to ensure that the health system is ready to quickly detect mpox cases, manage any suspected or confirmed cases, and prevent further transmission.
Mpox is a virus that can spread through close contact with skin lesions, bodily fluids and sexual contact with infected individuals, and contaminated environments and surfaces.
Those at high risk include individuals involved in MSM or promiscuous sex, those with a history of travel to areas severely affected by mpox, and healthcare workers.
The main symptoms of mpox includes a rash that can affect any part of the body, but typically appear on the face, hands, or genital areas. Other symptoms include fever, swollen lymph nodes, and fatigue.
Mpox is less contagious than Covid-19. However, the public is advised to remain cautious, avoid traveling to places with widespread mpox transmission, and refrain from activities that may lead to the spread of the disease.
Commencing Saturday (Sept 7), all individuals arriving in Brunei Darussalam by air, land, or sea are required to use the BruHealth mobile application to complete the Health Declaration Form upon arrival.
This requirement is enforced under the Infectious Diseases Act, Chapter 204, as part of control measures against the mpox outbreak. Individuals arriving through checkpoints must complete the Health Declaration Form and report their travel history from the past 21 days, as well as undergo health screening.
In addition, health advisories have been made available at air, land, and sea checkpoints to ensure that those traveling abroad take necessary precautions to avoid infection. Travelers are advised to follow these guidelines, especially when visiting affected countries.
The MoH said it will continue monitoring the global situation and regularly update its risk assessment for Brunei Darussalam, ensuring that our preparedness measures are calibrated based on the prevailing public health risk.
The MoH will provide regular updates to the public as needed. For any additional information, members of the public may visit the website www.moh.gov.bn or the BruHealth application. - Borneo Bulletin
