The Public Health Agency of Canada has issued a warning to travellers about monkeypox.
The Level 2 Travel Health Notice advises Canadian travellers to practise enhanced health precautions.
The agency says clusters of monkeypox cases have been reported in several countries internationally, outside of areas in Central and West Africa where cases are normally found. The occurrence of cases with no direct travel to those areas, or without established links to a traveller from those areas, is unusual.
It says during your travel, you may be subject to procedures at your destination put in place to limit the spread of monkeypox, such as isolation, should you become infected. You may have limited access to timely and appropriate health care should you become ill, and may experience delays in returning home.
PHAC says it is working closely with international, provincial and territorial health partners to gather information on this evolving issue. Further investigations are underway to determine the likely source of infection and to limit further onward spread.
Recommendations
Consult a health care professional or visit a travel health clinic at least 6 weeks before you travel.
You can lower your risk of getting or spreading monkeypox by:
- delaying your travel and isolating if you have any symptoms of monkeypox, or have been diagnosed with monkeypox
- practicing respiratory etiquette, including covering coughs and sneezes and wearing a face mask
- washing your hands frequently with soap and water avoiding close physical contact, including sexual contact, with people who are, or appear to be, sick
- avoid direct contact with their skin, body fluids, respiratory droplets, or sores on any parts of the body
- avoid contact with their clothing, towels, bedding, or common items that have been contaminated
Be particularly vigilant if you are planning to attend a large party or mass gathering while travelling.
Monitor your health
Be aware of the symptoms of monkeypox and report any concerns, particularly a new rash with or without other symptoms, to a health care professional. Individuals engaging with new or multiple sexual partners should be particularly vigilant.
- If you develop symptoms that could be due to monkeypox when you are travelling or after your return, see a health care professional and avoid contact with others. Tell them where you have been travelling or living.
- If you have symptoms that could be due to monkeypox during the flight, tell the flight attendant before you land or the border services officer as you enter the country. They will notify a quarantine officer who can assess your symptoms.
(1/3) The Public Health Agency of Canada has issued a Level 2 Travel Health Notice on #monkeypox for many countries. Travellers are advised to practise enhanced health precautions.
Learn more: https://t.co/n20wJG2kon pic.twitter.com/1mOSHtU1BD— Health Canada and PHAC (@GovCanHealth) June 7, 2022