Monkeypox update

Dana Malcolm

Staff Writer

September 2, 2022 – The CDC has new advice for event organizers as the summer comes to a close, and preparation for the winter tourist season begins.

The agency is recommending that organizers coordinate with health agencies and allow them to set up booths or tents to provide information and on-site services.

They are also encouraged to share health information on social media channels and websites.

During large gatherings and events, organizers and hoteliers should use banners and invited artistes  as mediums to share health messages.

The CDC advises that they should also set up hand washing facilities and sanitizers, and where appropriate, clean and disinfect the event premises regularly.

• Other tips included:
• Wash shared items such as utensils, plates, and glasses after each guest in a dishwasher or by hand with hot water and soap.
• Change bed linens and towels after each customer or adopt single-use options.
• Allocate a private space in the event venue [or hotel] for attendees, guests, volunteers, and staff who may start to show symptoms while they are attending the event. Make sure proper medical assistance is secured.

In terms of infections, Monkeypox cases globally dropped 21% mid August thanks to a huge dip in European cases according to the latest situation report from the World Health Organization. Unfortunately, the Americas have seen a massive increase in cases.

More than 60 percent of the 47 thousand total worldwide cases are attributed to the region, with the United States of America leading the case count.

There are now at least 10 Caribbean countries with confirmed cases of the v virus, including Aruba, the Bahamas, Barbados, Bermuda, Cuba, The Dominican Republic, Guadeloupe, Guyana, Jamaica, and Venezuela.