China’s rigorous measures against monkeypox aim to prevent another public health crisis—will they succeed?
At a Glance
- Mpox gained international attention in May 2022.
- The monkeypox outbreak was declared no longer a public health emergency on May 11, 2023.
- China has seen a significant increase in mpox cases since February 2023.
- Effective containment measures are crucial for China due to its large population.
China’s Proactive Approach
China has intensified its prevention strategies against monkeypox as the world grapples with rising cases. In response to the surge, China has implemented enhanced pandemic readiness exercises and thorough assessments of incoming travelers. These initiatives include comprehensive health evaluations, strict quarantine routines, and extensive informational campaigns aimed at addressing potential infections quickly.
The focus is on prompt identification and containment of monkeypox cases. This proactive stance underscores China’s commitment to preempting new health crises by leveraging experience gained from previous pandemic responses, particularly COVID-19.
Global Perspective and Local Risks
Mpox, caused by the monkeypox virus, garnered global attention in May 2022 and was no longer a public health emergency of international concern as of May 11, 2023. However, China has reported a significant increase in cases since February 2023. Given China’s dense population, the risk of an mpox outbreak remains high amid increasing global cases.
Community-level actions are essential to prevent potential transmissions. The UK’s method of identifying and contacting close contacts of mpox infections for testing or quarantine serves as a model. The UK’s rapid identification and reporting mechanisms are key to controlling the spread. China is advised to enhance the sensitivity of its medical institutions and establish comprehensive contact-tracing systems.
Mitigating Fear and Enhancing Surveillance
Effective measures include enhanced surveillance among high-risk populations and strengthening health education. Educating the public and screening vulnerable groups can alleviate fear. In the USA, smallpox vaccinations for high-risk populations have significantly prevented mpox. A survey revealed that 76.4% of Chinese participants were willing to receive an mpox vaccine, indicating strong public support for vaccination efforts.
Targeted vaccination based on contact tracing is both economical and effective. Listing mpox as a notifiable disease in China and learning from successful international practices can strengthen the country’s response. Effective containment measures are imperative to prevent potential outbreaks in China, leveraging lessons learned from COVID-19.
