Trinidad and Tobago has confirmed its first case of the Monkeypox virus, according to health authorities there. The patient is a middle-aged man with a history of international travel.
The diagnosis was confirmed by the Caribbean Public Health Agency this week.
Health authorities there have swiftly initiated a public health response, including contact tracing, to prevent the potential spread of the virus.
Monkeypox is primarily transmitted through close contact or respiratory droplets.
Residents and visitors are urged to remain vigilant and take necessary precautions to protect themselves and others from infection.
Common signs and symptoms of Monkeypox include a skin rash or mucosal lesions lasting two to four weeks, accompanied by fever, headache, muscle aches, back pain, low energy, and swollen lymph nodes. Health authorities have advised individuals experiencing these symptoms to seek immediate medical attention at the nearest health facility.
By July 4th, the World Health Organisation has confirmed 88,144 cases of Monkeypox across 112 countries and 149 deaths.
The Ministry of Health in Trinidad and Tobago is closely monitoring the situation.