Singapore reports one imported case of monkeypox

SINGAPORE: Singapore has confirmed one imported case of monkeypox infection in the republic involving a 42-year-old male British national who works as a flight attendant.

According to the Health Ministry (MOH), the man was here between June 15 and June 17, 2022 and again on June 19 as he flew in and out of Singapore.

"He tested positive for monkeypox on June 20. He is currently warded at the National Centre for Infectious Diseases (NCID), and his condition is stable. Contact tracing is ongoing," said the ministry in a statement issued on its website late Tuesday.

MOH said the case had an onset of headache on June 14, and fever on June 16.

"These symptoms were subsequently resolved, and he then developed skin rashes on June 19. He sought medical attention via teleconsultation on the night of June 19, and was taken to NCID on June 20 for further assessment," according to the statement.

The ministry noted that contact tracing is ongoing for the affected flights and for the duration of his stay in Singapore.

"During this period, he had largely remained in his hotel room, except to visit a massage establishment, and eat at three food establishments on June 16," it said.

In general, MOH said, the risk of transmission to visitors at these locations is low, as data has shown that monkeypox transmits through close physical or prolonged contact.

"All four locations visited by the case are undergoing cleaning and disinfection," it added.

As of June 21, MOH said, 13 close contacts have been identified and will be placed on quarantine for 21 days since their last contact with the case.

In addition, two low-risk contacts have been placed on phone surveillance they will receive daily phone calls during the 21-day period to monitor for any onset of symptoms.

If suspected of being infected, they will be immediately taken to the NCID for further evaluation and isolation to prevent further transmission, the ministry added.

-- BERNAMA