rand Cayman, Monday, 4 November 2024 –   The Ministry of Health & Wellness is aware of the recently reported case of mpox (formerly known as monkeypox) in the United Kingdom. The case involves an individual who has tested positive for clade 1b mpox after returning from travels to countries in Africa that are experiencing community cases of clade 1b. At this time, there have been no suspected or confirmed cases of mpox reported in the Cayman Islands in 2024.

Dr. Nick Gent, Chief Medical Officer for the Ministry of Health & Wellness, said: “The Ministry is closely monitoring the situation and will continue to stay vigilant regarding any new mpox cases reported internationally. Should the need arise, the Cayman Islands has a comprehensive response plan in place to manage any potential or suspected mpox cases locally. Our response strategy includes collaboration across our network of local healthcare facilities, ensuring that our hospitals and health professionals are well-prepared to act swiftly and effectively.”

Individuals infected with mpox will notice that symptoms usually start 5 to 21 days later and often get better by themselves over 2 to 4 weeks. Symptoms of mpox can include:

  *   fever
  *   headache
  *   flu-like symptoms, including muscle and back aches, shivering and tiredness
  *   swollen glands that feel like new lumps (in the neck, armpits or groin)
  *   a blistering rash that usually starts 1 to 5 days after other symptoms; the rash may start on the face or in the genital area and may spread to other parts of the body
  *   inflammation of the rectum, for example pain or bleeding from your back passage

The Ministry encourages all residents and travellers to seek medical advice if they experience any of these symptoms within 4 weeks of having visited Africa, or if they have been in contact with someone who has been diagnosed with mpox, even if they are currently well. Individuals are advised to avoid close contact with others and seek medical advice promptly by contacting one of the health centers listed below for timely assistance:

     *   HSA George Town – No.949-8600 (select option 2) between 7am- 7pm
                                 – No. 916-8301 between 7 pm to 7am and weekends

     *   Health City East End – No. 325-6892
     *   Doctors Hospital George Town – No. 325-9000
     *   Faith Hospital, Cayman Brac – No. 948-2243

Dr. Gent added: “While there is no immediate risk to the Cayman Islands, the Ministry is prepared to respond to any potential developments and will provide timely updates to the public. In the meantime, our primary recommendation is that residents remain informed about mpox symptoms and practice good hygiene to help prevent any potential spread of infections.”