Mpox (Monkeypox) is a viral disease caused by the mpox virus. The risk of spreading mpox is low as the transmission of mpox is through direct contact with bodily fluids, lesions, prolonged exposure to respiratory droplets of an infected person. Further, contact with contaminated materials, such as beddings or clothing of an infected person are other possibilities of transmission. The symptoms of mpox is characterized by fever, rash, and swollen lymph nodes.  

As higher number of cases are reported particularly in Central and Western parts of Africa including the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) with relatively high transmission and severity, on 14th August, 2024 the World Health Organization (WHO) declared a Public Health Emergency of International Concern (PHEIC) to strengthen global preparedness and collective response in a coordinated manner.  Only a few cases of mpox have been reported in the Asian region.

The Ministry of Health has taken necessary steps to strengthen the surveillance system across the country to detect any cases entering the country through points of entry. In addition, the National Institute of Infectious Diseases (IDH Hospital) has established dedicated isolation facilities to manage any mpox patients. Testing for mpox virus is available at Medical Research Institute, Colombo. The Expert Committee meeting held at Ministry of Health on 20.08.2024 has given necessary guidance to strengthen the preparation and response. Circular instructions have been sent to all healthcare institutions on this.