BEIJING: China customs authorities have introduced stricter measures at entry ports to prevent the spread of the monkeypox (mpox) virus, following a rise in global cases, as reported by agencies.

Travellers arriving from countries or regions where mpox cases have been confirmed, particularly those who have been exposed to the virus or exhibit symptoms such as fever, headache, back pain, muscle pain, swollen lymph nodes, and rashes, are required to declare their condition to customs officials upon arrival, according to China’s General Administration of Customs (GAC).

Related news: Mpox virus detected in Pakistan, as per health authorities

The GAC stated that customs officers will follow established procedures to carry out medical checks, including sampling and testing.

In addition, vehicles, containers, and goods from affected areas that may be contaminated will undergo sanitisation as per the guidelines.

These measures, which came into effect immediately on 15th August, will remain in place for six months.

Also read: Matthew Perry’s Death: Arrest made in Southern California in actor’s death investigation

The World Health Organisation recently declared mpox a public health emergency of international concern due to the potential for further international transmission.

According to the Africa Centres for Disease Control and Prevention, over 2,000 new mpox cases were reported in Africa in the past week. Since January 2022, there have been approximately 38,465 cases and 1,456 deaths across 16 countries in Africa, spanning all five regions.

The Public Health Agency of Sweden had reported the first case of mpox in Sweden, marking the first instance outside of Africa. The infected person, who had been in an African region experiencing an mpox outbreak, sought care in Region Stockholm.