SEOUL—In light of the World Health Organization (WHO) designating mpox outbreaks in Africa as a global health emergency, South Korean health authorities are set to intensify their quarantine and surveillance measures. The Korea Disease Control and Prevention Agency (KDCA) detailed these plans following a strategic meeting with medical and academic experts on Friday.
According to Yonhap News Agency, while the mpox situation in South Korea is currently considered manageable with existing protocols, the decision to escalate surveillance efforts comes without reinstating the previously lifted crisis alert. This proactive stance follows the WHO's recent announcement on Wednesday, declaring mpox a Public Health Emergency of International Concern (PHEIC) due to a spike in cases in Congo and the emergence of a new virus variant.
Additional measures include heightened quarantine protocols at airports, particularly for direct flights from affected regions, with epidemiological investigators and public health doctors to be stationed on-site. The KDCA also aims to boost public health campaigns, urging those with symptoms to seek medical assistance promptly.
As of August 9, South Korea has recorded a total of 10 mpox cases this year, down from 151 cases in 2023. The KDCA reports that all cases involved men aged 20 to 40, with the majority being domestic transmissions and one linked to international travel. The country is equipped with 20,000 doses of the Jynneos mpox vaccine and sufficient treatments for 504 individuals.
KDCA Commissioner Jee Young-mee emphasized the importance of public cooperation, advising, "Please avoid close contact with strangers, get tested immediately if you suspect exposure or symptoms and participate in vaccination efforts."