Armenia Bans Import of Rodents and Primates to Prevent Mpox Outbreak

Armenia is taking a step to prevent a possible outbreak of mpox, a viral disease that was previously called monkeypox. Starting from August 21, the country has banned the import and transit of all types of rodents and primates. This decision, made by Armenia’s Food Safety Inspection Body, aims to stop the disease from entering the country. The restriction will remain in place until more information is provided by the World Health Organization (WHO).

So far, Armenia has not recorded any cases of mpox. According to health experts, the likelihood of the disease spreading to the region is considered low. However, given the seriousness of the situation globally, Armenia is taking this precautionary measure to safeguard public health.

Mpox is a viral disease that can cause flu-like symptoms, swollen lymph nodes, and rashes. The disease has mainly been found in central and east Africa, but recent outbreaks have shown it can spread to other regions. Mpox has attracted global attention due to its severity, especially a new variant that scientists are closely monitoring.

On August 14, the WHO declared mpox a global health emergency for the second time in just two years. This declaration reflects the growing concerns about how fast the disease is spreading and its potential risks. The first mpox outbreak, which occurred in the Democratic Republic of Congo, resulted in the deaths of at least 450 people. The disease has since spread to other African countries, with scientists warning that the new variant may be more dangerous and has a higher fatality rate.

Recently, cases of mpox have been reported outside Africa, adding to the global concern. On Thursday, Sweden’s public health agency confirmed the first case of a more dangerous type of mpox in a person who had traveled to Africa. The infected individual had been in an area where mpox Clade 1, a more severe form of the disease, is causing a major outbreak.

The appearance of this more dangerous strain outside the African continent has alarmed health officials. It raises concerns that the virus may spread further, potentially causing more outbreaks in regions that have not previously seen the disease. Clade 1 of mpox is known to have a higher mortality rate, making it a serious threat to public health.

Armenia’s decision to ban the import of rodents and primates is a key preventive measure. These animals are believed to be potential carriers of the mpox virus. Rodents, in particular, have been associated with the spread of the disease in previous outbreaks. By halting their import, Armenia aims to reduce the risk of mpox entering its borders.

The government has stated that this restriction is temporary and will be reviewed once the WHO provides further clarifications. In the meantime, the country remains vigilant, with health authorities closely monitoring the situation both locally and globally.