Smallpox is the first disease to be eradicated in history, and this title was awarded in 1980 by the World Health Organization (WHO), after a major effort to vaccinate the world’s population. With increasing cases of monkeypox infection, the National Health Surveillance Agency (Anvisa) has reinforced the importance of health protection measures adopted in airports and aircraft.
Despite the absence of reported cases in the Brazilian territory and the low probability of uncontrolled transmission rates, according to experts, one cannot abandon caution about the virus, which can be transmitted during air travel.
In a note, Anfisa drew attention to the actions set forth in Resolution RDC No. 456/2020. “Such non-pharmacological measures, such as physical distancing whenever possible, use of protective masks and frequent hand hygiene, have the potential to protect the individual and society not only from the coronavirus, but also against other diseases.”
Infectious disease specialist Hemerson Luz reiterates the benefits of care, and argues that hand washing and the use of masks are essential. “Precautionary measures to avoid contact with diseases by contact or droplets are of paramount importance. In Brazil, we have the highly qualified Anvisa to follow up and monitor the global situation and contain the entry of the disease into the country.”
As for University of Brasilia epidemiologist Jonas Brandt, it is still too early to talk about the use of masks and isolation. “We’re still talking about the outbreak that still has traceability, trying to break the chains of transmission and prevent an increase in the number of cases. Being this but still early.”
In the case of professionals caring for people with suspected disease, the epidemiologist says the use of an N95 mask is essential, as well as isolating cases to avoid breaking chains of transmission.
