Mpox screenings begin

All people entering the country will be checked

- Enkosi Selane

The South African Border Management Authority (BMA) has activated its outbreak preparedness plan to tackle the rising cases of mpox.

The national department of health has confirmed 13 cases.

Yesterday, BMA commissioner Dr Michael Masiapato announced that a robust screening process has been implemented at all South African ports of entry to detect and respond to potential cases.

All people entering the country will undergo screening.

At airports, the initial screening phase involves the conveyance operator [the captain] submitting a mandatory health declaration form, confirming no passengers have reported or shown symptoms during the journey.

This is in accordance with International Health Regulations.

According to the BMA, after the initial screening, travellers will undergo thermal screening to check for elevated temperatures. This process is also applicable to land and seaports.