Healthcare workers and monkeypox: The case for risk mitigation

Int J Surg Open. 2023 Jan:50:100584. doi: 10.1016/j.ijso.2022.100584. Epub 2022 Dec 13.

Abstract

Potentially more at risk of contracting the monkeypox virus are healthcare workers. Most healthcare workers come into direct contact with the disease's infected people, which can spread directly and indirectly. Healthcare professionals must contact patients with the disease and any infected objects or fluids to effectively manage the disease, which further increases the risk of transmission. It is crucial to put safety measures in place and protect healthcare workers. To stop the spread of the monkeypox virus, countries must develop the necessary safeguards and countermeasures. In this emergency, healthcare systems must be strengthened. All healthcare systems should offer staff sufficient personal protective equipment (PPE) and facilitate risk assessment among those with a high risk of exposure. Any suspected case of monkeypox requires caution on the part of healthcare professionals. They must abide by infection control safety rules and protective measures.

Keywords: Delivery of health care; Disease outbreak; Health personnel; Monkeypox; Occupational exposure; Prevention and control; Virus diseases.