In response to the global rise in monkeypox cases, Singapore’s Ministry of Health (MOH) announced on Sept. 4 that it will be reintroducing mandatory quarantine and vaccination measures – much like those implemented during the Wuhan coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic.
This decision follows the World Health Organization's (WHO) declaration of monkeypox, or mpox, as a public health emergency of international concern in August. (Related: Here comes the fear: The WHO warns that the new mutant strain of monkeypox is an emergency "for the entire globe.")
The MOH has categorized mpox cases as Clade I and Clade II. Clade I is considered the more serious strain – with a higher potential for severe outcomes, while Clade II generally results in milder symptoms. The MOH has made it mandatory for all health care providers in Singapore to report mpox cases.
To manage the outbreak, designated hospitals in Singapore will test suspected Clade I cases using polymerase chain reaction (PCR) tests. The MOH acknowledged, however, that there are currently no rapid diagnostic tests for mpox that are reliable enough for widespread use.
Once a case of Clade I mpox is confirmed, close contacts will be quarantined for 21 days in government-designated facilities. This lengthy quarantine period is reminiscent of Singapore's stringent COVID-19 protocols in 2020 and 2021 that were aimed at curbing the spread of the virus.
The ministry emphasized that it is closely monitoring the situation and is prepared to respond swiftly if necessary – working in coordination with international health organizations.
Singapore mandating monkeypox vaccinations
In addition to quarantine measures, Singapore has authorized the use of the Jynneos vaccine to combat mpox. This vaccine will be administered to two specific groups: healthcare workers who are at the highest risk of exposure and individuals who have been in close contact with confirmed mpox cases.
The MOH explained that the Jynneos vaccine is a live attenuated (non-replicating) vaccine. It is recommended that close contacts receive a single dose within 14 days of exposure to reduce the risk of developing the disease. Furthermore, close contacts under quarantine will be offered the vaccine during their isolation period, though details on whether individuals will have the option to refuse the vaccine were not provided.
The MOH assured the public that it has an adequate supply of the Jynneos vaccine to meet the current needs of its vaccination strategy. It also pledged to adjust its approach as the situation evolves both locally and globally.
As of Aug. 22, Singapore has confirmed 13 cases of mpox in 2024 – all of which were of the less severe Clade II strain. The MOH also confirmed that no cases of the more virulent Clade I strain have been detected in the country so far. However the MOH continues to advise caution and urges travelers to remain vigilant – particularly those returning from regions with high mpox activity.
While the threat of mpox, particularly the deadlier Clade 1b strain, remains a global concern, health experts in Singapore have reassured the public that quarantine is unnecessary for returning travelers unless they exhibit symptoms or have been in direct contact with infected individuals.
Learn more about monkeypox infections at MonkeypoxPanic.com.
Watch this news clip from Channel News Asia featuring Singaporean Minister for Health Ong Ye Kung announcing mpox public health measures.
This video is from the Daily Videos channel on Brighteon.com.
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