The introduction of border controls in Europe to contain the further spread of the infectious viral disease mpox (Monkeypox) is not needed, according to the European Health authorities.
As stated by the health authorities, the risk posed by mpox at present is still considered low.
The Health Security Committee of the European Commission on August 19 concluded that there is no need to initiate bloc-wide inoculation against the virus, following a meeting held with the European Center for Disease Prevention and Control (ECDC), the European Medicine Agency (EMA).
A European Commission spokesperson told Euronews that as things stand, it should not be considered a public health emergency in Europe regarding mpox.
The HSC members agreed on the importance of a closely coordinated approach and the need to continue monitoring the situation very closely.
At present, vaccination recommendations are maintained for specific groups; however, extending this to the general population has been ruled out.
The meeting was scheduled in order to discuss the evolving situation of mpox in the EU and the potential measures required, such as vaccination recommendations for the population or the introduction of border controls.
Mpox Already Detected in Europe
The spread of mpox has caused the death of over 500 people in the Democratic Republic of Congo, and it has been declared a global public health emergency.
Last week, the first case of the mpox was also registered in Europe, more specifically in Sweden.
In spite of the low risk, the spread of this contagious disease has also raised concerns among authorities in Europe.
WHO Says Mpox is Not the New COVID
An official from the World Health Organization said on Tuesday that mpox is not the new COVID, regardless of whether it is the new or old strain after authorities know how to control its spread.
We can and must tackle mpox together. So will we choose to put the systems in place to control and eliminate mpox globally? Or we will enter another cycle of panic and neglect? How we respond now and in the years to come will prove a critical test for Europe and the world.
Several Countries Have Tightened Border Controls Amid Mpox Spread
Due to the spread of mpox, authorities in China have introduced stricter travel restrictions on persons with mpox symptoms.
South Africa has introduced a new airport screening initiative to address mpox cases among arriving travellers.
In addition, Kenya’s government imposed testing requirements for those arriving in its territory to contain the disease’s further spread.
Authorities in Nigeria also implemented a compulsory declaration process for passengers heading to specific African regions.
