Monkeypox was declared a Public Health Emergency of International Concern by the World Health Organization on Saturday, prompting an international coordinated response by member countries.
Though Trinidad and Tobago has not recorded a case of the disease on our shores, Minister of Health Terrence Deyalsingh assured that this country is prepared. The Minister noted there is no need for any roll back of Public Health Measures at this time.
This country is in Group 1, which means that this country has not has a history of Monkeypox, no cases for 21 days, and must comply with nine action items, of which Minister Deyalsingh said majority have been met fully. This includes the training of health care workers, assigning facilities and public education. Minister Deyalsingh also gave an update on the procurement of the Monkeypox vaccines, noting there have been challenges.