China to Monitor for Mpox Amid WHO Global Health Emergency Declaration

China has announced it will monitor individuals and goods entering the nation for mpox over the next six months. This follows the World Health Organization's (WHO) declaration on Wednesday that mpox is once again a global health emergency. The WHO's decision comes after an outbreak of the viral infection in the Democratic Republic of Congo, which has since spread to neighboring countries.

"Personnel from countries with monkeypox outbreaks who have been in contact with monkeypox cases or display symptoms ... should take the initiative to declare themselves to Customs," the Chinese customs administration stated. The WHO recently renamed monkeypox to mpox. Additionally, vehicles, containers, and goods from affected areas must be sanitized, according to the administration.

China’s National Health Commission will manage mpox as a Category B infectious disease, similar to COVID-19, AIDS, and SARS. This categorization allows officials to implement emergency measures like restricting gatherings, suspending work and school, or sealing off areas during outbreaks. Mpox typically spreads through close contact and, while generally mild, can be fatal in rare instances.

(With inputs from agencies.)