The World Health Organization (WHO) declaration of mpox as a public health emergency of international concern has triggered a response from Caribbean nations, including Trinidad and Tobago. While the country is not banning travellers from Africa, it has implemented enhanced screening procedures at airports. The Caribbean Public Health Agency (CARPHA) is playing a crucial role in the country's mpox preparedness.

The health authorities in Trinidad and Tobago have implemented a two-pronged approach to surveillance. The first layer involves utilizing the advanced passenger manifest system, which allows for contact tracing of individuals who have travelled to Africa. The second layer involves screening travellers for fevers at the airports. Those who exhibit fever symptoms will be subject to testing for mpox.

Trinidad and Tobago's Mpox Response

Trinidad and Tobago's Health Minister, Terrence Deyalsingh, has emphasized the importance of vigilance against the virus, but he has also assured the public that there will be no drastic measures akin to those implemented during the COVID-19 pandemic. He highlighted that the current strain of mpox, type 1B, is more transmissible and associated with a higher fatality rate than the type 2 strain that circulated in 2022.

Mpox Isolation and Treatment

In the event of confirmed mpox cases in Trinidad and Tobago, the country has the necessary resources for both treatment and isolation. Vaccines are available to treat infected individuals, and isolation protocols are in place. Patients can be isolated at home, unless they require more intensive care, in which case they are admitted to specialized isolation rooms at health facilities like Caura Hospital.

CARPHA's Role in Regional Mpox Surveillance

CARPHA, based in Trinidad and Tobago, has a critical role in coordinating the regional response to mpox. The agency has established a testing capacity for the virus with a turnaround time of 72 hours. CARPHA's interim executive director, Dr. Lisa Indar, has assessed the current risk to the Caribbean population from mpox clade 1b as low to moderate, as no cases of mpox have been identified in the CARPHA member states. However, CARPHA urges member states to remain vigilant and strengthen their surveillance efforts.

Antigua and Barbuda's Precautionary Measures

Antigua and Barbuda has also taken proactive measures to prevent the spread of mpox. The country's Ministry of Health has implemented a multistakeholder approach to enhance surveillance at ports of entry and healthcare facilities nationwide. This includes collaboration with the Ministry of Tourism, Ministry of Civil Aviation, Antigua and Barbuda Port Authority, Antigua and Barbuda Airport Authority, Department of Immigration, Customs and Excise Division, Sir Lester Bird Medical Centre, and the Antigua and Barbuda Emergency Medical Services.

The Sir Lester Bird Medical Centre is equipped to conduct diagnostic testing for suspected cases of mpox. The Ministry of Health has also provided the public with essential information about the virus, its symptoms, and how it spreads. The Ministry emphasizes the importance of preventative measures, particularly frequent handwashing and routine cleaning of surfaces to reduce the risk of infection.

Staying Safe: A Collective Effort

The WHO's declaration of mpox as a public health emergency has highlighted the importance of a coordinated global response to prevent the spread of the virus. The efforts of countries like Trinidad and Tobago and Antigua and Barbuda, along with the critical role played by regional organizations like CARPHA, are crucial in protecting populations from this potential threat. As the situation evolves, it is essential that individuals stay informed about the latest guidance from health authorities and take precautions to minimize their risk of infection.

The fight against mpox is a collective effort, and each individual has a role to play in keeping themselves and their communities safe.