news desk Laugh
The Chilean Ministry of Health has reported the country’s second death from monkeypox. The patient was an unvaccinated older man who was diagnosed on 20 October.
He suffers from underlying diseases and a weakened immune system (immunosuppression).
In June of this year, the World Health Organization (WHO) declared a global health alert for monkeypox, and as of November 15, more than 79,000 infections and 50 deaths have been recorded.
The main route of transmission for monkeypox is prolonged skin-to-skin contact, so people who have multiple sexual partners or have risky behaviors are more likely to get sick.
The Health Authority stresses the importance of timely consultation at a health care center when symptoms such as lesions of the skin or mucous membranes, especially in the genital area, are accompanied by a temperature higher than 38.5°C, sore throat, headache and muscle pain.
Among the preventive measures, it is recommended to avoid skin-to-skin contact with people with monkeypox-like lesions; do not kiss, hug, or have sexual relations in saunas, clubs, discos, mass events, or private or public sex parties; Do not use objects and utensils used by a person with the disease, such as cutlery, cups, clothes, towels, sheets, etc.
The Ministry of Health started post-exposure vaccination on October 19 and it is available nationwide as part of the outbreak containment strategy. To be vaccinated contact your local health SEREMI.
In addition, through the Epidemiology Department, the Ministry of Health has started the monitoring process in accordance with international recommendations, among which are:
– Alert to the National Epidemiological Network.
Monkeypox monitoring begins.
Implementation of the electronic form for reporting cases.
– Strengthening laboratory capabilities.
