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With the World Health Organization (WHO) reporting a disturbing increase in the number of MPOX cases across Asia, there is an urgent need for vigilance and action. With nearly a thousand confirmed cases and a dozen deaths since July 2022, the outbreak has already claimed lives in Thailand, a stark reminder of the vulnerabilities we face. While Bhutan has not reported any cases, we cannot afford to take it lightly. The rapid spread of this virus, coupled with its ability to cause severe illness and death, requires immediate and decisive action.
The activation of the Health Emergency Operations Centre (HEOC) by the Department of Health is a critical first step in defending our country. Currently in the alert phase, the HEOC is prepared to monitor the situation closely, ensuring we are ready to respond quickly if the threat escalates. However, we must recognize that this is more than just an exercise. The activation of the HEOC demonstrates the severity of the situation and the real possibility that we may soon face our own case of MPOX.
The Department of Public Health (DoPH) and the Royal Centre for Disease Control (RCDC) have rightly prioritized strengthening surveillance systems, particularly at ports of entry. This focus on early detection is critical. We have seen from the experience of neighboring countries that a delayed response can lead to a rapid, uncontrolled outbreak. The focus on monitoring travelers and working with airlines and the media to disseminate key information is commendable, but it is only the beginning.
The potential for MPOX to spread rapidly across borders is worrisome, especially given the high mobility of people in the region. Bhutan’s geographic proximity to countries already affected by MPOX makes us particularly vulnerable to infection. While we are working to raise awareness and educate the population on preventive measures, these efforts must be intensified. The public needs to understand the severity of the threat and the importance of following recommended safety protocols.
Strengthening health infrastructure is non-negotiable. The Ministry of Health’s plans to equip isolation facilities, ensure vaccine supplies, and strengthen laboratory and diagnostic capabilities must be accelerated. This virus has proven to be highly contagious and without proper isolation and treatment facilities, an outbreak could be catastrophic. In addition, the provision of personal protective equipment and comprehensive training of health workers are essential to prevent the spread of the virus within health facilities, which could otherwise have disastrous consequences.
As we continue to follow the WHO Director-General’s long-standing advice, especially on epidemiological surveillance and genomic sequencing, we must remain vigilant. Now is not the time to quit or become complacent. The virus knows no borders, and neither do our efforts to prevent it.
Bhutan has successfully responded to public health crises before, but each new threat requires a new commitment and resolve. The lessons of the past must guide our current strategy. While smallpox has not yet entered our borders, the risk is real. We must act now to ensure that when it does arrive, we are not caught unprepared.
Vigilance, preparedness and swift action will determine whether we can avoid the worst outcomes of this outbreak. Let’s not wait until the first case appears to sound the alarm – by then it may be too late.
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