As Mpox is reinstated as a Public Health Emergency of International Concern (PHEIC) by the World Health Organization (WHO), Batam’s Port Health Office (KKP) Class I intensifies its surveillance at all international entry points to prevent the entry of the virus.

The tightening of controls by KKP Batam follows the WHO’s designation of Mpox as a significant global health threat. Ahmad Hidayat, the head of KKP Class I Batam, emphasized the proactive measures being adopted, particularly for travelers from overseas, to safeguard the city against any potential outbreak.

Despite no reported cases of Mpox in Batam to date, local health authorities remain vigilant, enhancing preventative measures. “We are bolstering our coordination with various stakeholders including the health department, referral hospitals, public health laboratories, and managers of ports and airports to ensure the health and safety of incoming passengers,” Ahmad stated on Thursday, September 5, 2024.

Enhanced surveillance includes the use of thermal scanners at international gateways such as ports and airports to detect any passengers showing symptoms of Mpox. Moreover, in collaboration with Hang Nadim Airport and various airlines, KKP Batam ensures that arriving international passengers undergo health screening through the Ministry of Health’s Satu Sehat Health Pass (SSHP). Passengers are also encouraged to perform a self-assessment regarding their health condition.

The Secretary of Kepri, Adi Prihantara, outlined that while there are currently no confirmed cases of Mpox in the Kepri region, the provincial government remains alert. “As of today, there have been no reports of cases. We just want to urge the public to understand what Mpox is and the preventative actions they can take,” he added.

Adi noted that while applications for movement restrictions similar to those used during the COVID-19 pandemic are not yet implemented due to differences in the transmission modes of Mpox, the provincial government will continue to intensify preventive steps to respond swiftly should the situation worsen.

Read More: Singapore Implements Airport Health Checks to Prevent Mpox Spread

Ahmad Hidayat reiterated the importance of continued vigilance and the enhancement of surveillance measures across various sectors. “Since Mpox was re-declared a PHEIC by the WHO, we have found no cases in Batam. However, we remain cautious and are increasing our surveillance measures,” he explained.

With the recent global emphasis on Mpox as a public health emergency, Batam and the broader Kepri region are taking rigorous steps to monitor and control international entries. These measures are crucial to prevent the spread of Mpox, ensuring the safety and health of both residents and visitors.

In response to the World Health Organization reinstating Mpox as a Public Health Emergency of International Concern, Batam’s Port Health Office has tightened surveillance at international entry points. Coordinated efforts with health departments and other stakeholders aim to maintain Batam and the surrounding Kepri region free from Mpox, emphasizing rigorous health screenings and public awareness of the disease.

Sources: Go Kepri, Antara News (2024)