As more countries in CARICOM detect cases of monkeypox, health officials in Barbados are being urged to beef up surveillance at the island’s ports of entry.
They are also being encouraged to consider screening travellers coming in from countries where cases have been reported.
The advice is coming from the Centre of Biosecurity Studies at the University of the West Indies, Cave Hill as they continue to monitor the monkeypox outbreak, with recent cases being reported in the Bahamas and St. Lucia.
Director, Dr. Kirk Douglas explains why enhanced screening is critical in detecting individuals who may be infected and infectious.
Dr. Douglas also thinks local health authorities should explore the possibility of setting up a new quarantine facility for monkeypox.
He also wants testing done at points of entry for individuals suspected with the virus.
He’s of the view if there’s one lesson learnt from the COVID-19 pandemic, it’s to be proactive.
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