China tightening its entry restrictions
The World Health Organization declares a global health emergency due to the spreading monkeypox. China responds by tightening its entry restrictions. Individuals coming from countries where monkeypox has broken out must report themselves.
China will inspect individuals and goods imports for the spreading monkeypox virus (Mpox) in the next six months. The Chinese customs authority announced this. "Individuals from countries where monkeypox has broken out, who have been in contact with monkeypox cases or show symptoms, should take the initiative and report to the customs authority," it said.
In China, vehicles, containers, and goods from areas with Mpox cases will now be disinfected, the customs authority said. China's National Health Commission announced last year that Mpox will be handled as a Category B infectious disease, allowing authorities to take emergency measures in case of an outbreak. Other Category B infectious diseases currently include COVID-19, AIDS, and SARS.
On Wednesday, the World Health Organization (WHO) declared the highest level of alarm due to the spread of the viral disease in Africa for the second time in two years. According to WHO Director-General Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, this is a global health emergency.
The WHO had already declared an emergency due to Mpox in July 2022. At that time, there were cases in more than 60 countries, including Germany. The infections were attributed to Clade II, which causes less severe disease courses. The emergency was lifted in May 2023 as outbreaks were brought under control in most countries, even with vaccines. However, there are still issues with vaccine supply in Africa and other Global South countries.
The Chinese National Health Commission, responsible for handling Mpox as a Category B infectious disease, is under the supervision of The Commission.To ensure compliance with entry restrictions, individuals entering China from affected countries must report to The Commission's customs authority.
