Prevent the Spread of Monkeypox in Schools Before It's Too Late!

The transmission of monkeypox in school environments is something that needs to be watched out for. However, by implementing some appropriate preventive measures, the risk of transmission can be minimized. Here are some ways to prevent the transmission of monkeypox in the school environment:
General Prevention

• Education:
  - Conduct socialization for all school members (students, teachers, and staff) regarding monkeypox, its symptoms, modes of transmission, and preventive measures.
  - Encourage students to actively ask questions and participate in discussions.
• Cleanliness:
  - Ensure that the school environment is always clean and hygienic.
  - Perform regular cleaning and disinfection on frequently touched surfaces, such as tables, chairs, doorknobs, and toilets.
  - Provide adequate handwashing facilities with soap and running water in every classroom and common area.
• Surveillance:
  - Conduct regular health monitoring of students and teachers.
  - Immediately report if there are any students or teachers showing symptoms similar to monkeypox.
• Isolation:
  - If there are students or teachers suspected of being infected with monkeypox, immediately isolate them and refer them to the nearest healthcare facility.
  - Prevention during School Activities
• Physical Distance:
  - Maintain physical distance between students, especially during activities in the classroom.
  - Avoid crowds and activities that involve close physical contact.
• Mask Usage:
  - Encourage students and teachers to wear masks, especially when in enclosed spaces or during an increase in monkeypox cases in the area.
• Personal Equipment:
  - Encourage students to bring personal equipment such as water bottles and their own eating utensils.
  - Avoid sharing eating or drinking utensils with friends.
• Extracurricular Activities:
  - Modify extracurricular activities that involve physical contact to safer activities, such as online activities or activities conducted in open spaces while maintaining distance.
  - Prevention during School Events
• Screening:
  - Conduct health screenings for participants before the event begins.
  - Check the body temperature and ask about any symptoms experienced.
• Ventilation:
  - Ensure that the room used for the event has good ventilation.
• Food and Beverages:
  - Provide food and beverages in individual packaging.
  - Avoid serving food buffet-style.

Always follow the latest guidelines and policies from the government and health institutions regarding the prevention of monkeypox.
By implementing the above preventive measures, we can create a safe and comfortable school environment for everyone. immediately consult if you experience the following symptoms or complaints with your favorite pediatrician at RS Hermina Karawang.

Reference:
Adler, H., et. al. (2022). Clinical features and management of human monkeypox: a
retrospective observational study in the UK. The Lancet Infectious Diseases, 22(8),
1153–1162. https://doi.org/10.1016/S1473-3099(22)00228-6