[Asia Economy Reporter Kim Young-won] As cases of monkeypox infection have been reported worldwide, health authorities announced that they have strengthened surveillance and response systems.
On the 24th, Lee Ki-il, head of the Epidemiological Investigation and Analysis Division at the Central Disease Control Headquarters, stated, "Although monkeypox is considered to have rare human-to-human transmission, the possibility of overseas importation cannot be ruled out given the increase in international travel and the incubation period of up to 21 days."
The authorities explained that in preparation for imported cases, all travelers are screened for fever upon entry and required to submit a health questionnaire. They also urged people to contact the Korea Disease Control and Prevention Agency call center if suspected monkeypox symptoms appear within three weeks after returning to the country.
Symptoms of monkeypox include fever above 38℃, chills, headache, lymphadenopathy, and vesicular rash spreading on the face, hands, and feet.
As of the 24th, a total of 171 confirmed monkeypox cases and 86 suspected cases have been reported in 18 countries. Among them, the United Kingdom reported 56 cases, Portugal 37, and Spain 41, with many confirmed cases emerging in Europe. No deaths have been reported so far.
However, the authorities emphasized that excessive anxiety about monkeypox is unnecessary. Lee said, "Unlike COVID-19, monkeypox does not have high transmissibility, so while sufficient caution is needed, excessive fear is unwarranted. Our country has established diagnostic systems early and is equipped with response measures."
He also mentioned that although 35.02 million doses of smallpox vaccine are stockpiled domestically, there are currently no plans to vaccinate the general public. Lee stated, "Smallpox is a viral disease eradicated by humanity, and the vaccine is held in case of laboratory accidents, so unless there is a very serious risk, the smallpox vaccine will not be used. There are no immediate plans to use it for the general population."
Furthermore, the Central Disease Control Headquarters said it is not considering any separate high-intensity quarantine measures for monkeypox. Lee explained, "Quarantine and overseas travel issues are not solely a domestic matter but involve a degree of reciprocity within the international community. If the World Health Organization (WHO) declares monkeypox a public health emergency of international concern (PHEIC), quarantine procedures will be established accordingly."
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